Sporting CP chief: Only "worst agent in the world" can stop Victor Gyokeres exit

Speaking to A Bola, Varandas was frank about the Sweden international's future, suggesting only an inept agent would fail to secure a move for one of Europe's most in-demand forwards.

"If you ask me today, there is a strong possibility that Viktor will leave," Varandas said. "Unless he has the worst agent in the world-which I find hard to believe, because he is one of the best footballers in the world."

Gyokeres, 26, was a revelation for Sporting last season, scoring 54 goals in 52 appearances across all competitions and playing a pivotal role in the club's Liga Portugal title win. His prolific form has naturally drawn the attention of top clubs across Europe, with Manchester United and Arsenal already linked to the former Coventry City man.

Varandas pointed to recent high-value transfers as a benchmark for Gyokeres' valuation. He cited Arsenal's 65 million euro move for midfielder Martín Zubimendi and Wolverhampton Wanderers' 75 million euro sale of forward Matheus Cunha as relevant comparisons - players he believes do not match Gyokeres' impact.

"We are talking about players who are 26 years old and do not have the same quality as Viktor, in my opinion," Varandas noted.

Gyokeres remains under contract with Sporting until June 2028 and has a 100 million euro release clause. While Sporting are open to a sale, they are expected to hold firm on their valuation, confident in the player's profile and production.

With the transfer window heating up, a high-stakes battle could be looming for one of Europe's most lethal strikers. Whether either Premier League contender is willing to meet Sporting's demands remains to be seen - but the message from Lisbon is clear - Gyokeres won't come cheap.