Ultimately, the card of "training boycott" has been played. Viktor Jokerez (27, Sporting CP) has revealed his determination towards a transfer to Arsenal, entering into a full-blown conflict phase.

Last season, Jokerez set an astonishing record of 64 goals in 65 matches for both club and national team, making him the chosen next-generation striker for Arsenal. However, negotiations over the transfer fee between Sporting and Arsenal have reached an impasse, prompting the player to take direct action.

The Portuguese media outlet "Record" reported on the 11th (Korea time) that "Jokerez refused to return for preseason training," stating that "although he had previously obtained permission from the club to change the return schedule, he ultimately did not appear at the Lisbon training facility." The club considers this a clear violation of regulations and plans to initiate disciplinary proceedings.

Jokerez's opposition is not mere stubbornness but is actually a well-prepared action. He has already reached a personal agreement on a 5-year contract with Arsenal, forfeiting part of his salary for the transfer, and has also ended his relationship with Portuguese actress Ines Aguiar. The Sun reported that he chose to "cut ties with Portugal to sever the consolidation."

The positions of both clubs remain, at this time, unresolved. Arsenal made an offer of a fixed 65 million euros (approximately 104.8 billion won) along with a bonus of 15 million euros (approximately 24.2 billion won), but Sporting is demanding a fixed transfer fee of 70 million euros (approximately 112.8 billion won) and a bonus of 10 million euros (approximately 16.1 billion won). While it appears to be a 5 million euro difference, Sporting President Frederico Varandas stated that "Jokerez is a more expensive player than defensive midfielder."

Furthermore, the club insists, "We have not received any official proposal for Jokerez." In response, Jokerez's camp hinted at the possibility of revealing messages promised by the club upon his acquisition in 2023, which stated that he would be allowed to transfer if a "70 million euro offer is made." The negotiations are increasingly turning into emotional battles and political maneuvers.

Meanwhile, a new variable has emerged. That's Manchester United. British outlet "Team Talk" reported that "if Arsenal's negotiations collapse, Manchester United could provide a lifeline to Jokerez." Following the humiliation of finishing 15th in the league last season, the newly appointed manager Ruben Amorim is undertaking a complete overhaul for a turnaround. Notably, Amorim has a history with Jokerez, having discovered him during his time at Sporting and helped him grow into a world-class forward.

Manchester United has already begun unofficial contact with Jokerez's camp, and there are reports of a gentleman's agreement stating, "if an offer of over 58 million pounds comes in, he will be allowed to transfer." This is significantly lower than the official buyout amount of 84 million pounds (approximately 156.2 billion won).

Whether Arsenal will continue to hold out, Sporting will change its mind, or Manchester United will step in again remains uncertain. However, one thing is clear: Jokerez is the "key card" in this summer's European transfer market.

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