It was at that point that the entire saga took a turn. Sporting CP president Frederico Varandas accused Gyökeres’s agent of “blackmail” and rejected the existence of an agreement which would see the striker sold for well below his €100 million (£85.1 million, $115.4 million) release clause.

Gyokeres, 27, has been strongly linked with a move to Manchester United after bagging 54 goals in 52 matches last season. After already signing Matheus Cunha and pursuing Bryan Mbeumo, Ruben Amorim is keen to boost his attacking options with the purchase of a new centre-forward.

Viktor Gyokeres has reportedly rejected the chance to join Manchester United as the striker's future continues to be the subject of much speculation this summer