Sporting CP’s João Simões and Iván Fresneda Leave Training Ground Amid Transfer Speculation
Sporting CP confirmed that defenders João Simões and Iván Fresneda departed the club’s Academia training ground during the morning session on Monday, June 10, 2024, as transfer speculation intensifies regarding a potential move to Newcastle United. The club’s official statement, released via their website and verified through official channels, indicated that both players left the facility for personal reasons unrelated to injury or disciplinary action, though the timing coincides with ongoing negotiations for Fresneda’s transfer.
According to Sporting CP’s official communications, the departure occurred around 10:30 AM local time (09:30 UTC) and was part of a pre-arranged schedule for the players to attend to personal matters. The club emphasized that the players remain under contract and are expected to return for training later in the week, with no immediate impact on squad availability for upcoming fixtures.
Newcastle United have been linked with a move for the 22-year-old Spanish right-back Iván Fresneda, with reports suggesting a potential transfer fee in the region of €30 million. However, Newcastle United have not officially confirmed any bid or negotiation, and Sporting CP have not entered into any formal transfer discussions regarding the player as of the latest verified club statements.
João Simões, a 21-year-old Portuguese left-back who came through Sporting’s youth academy, has been a regular in the club’s reserve team and has made limited appearances for the first team this season. His departure from the training ground was described by the club as routine and unrelated to any transfer interest, with Simões focusing on his development within the club’s structure.
Fresneda, who joined Sporting CP from Real Valladolid in January 2023 for a reported fee of €12 million, has made 45 appearances across all competitions for the Portuguese club, scoring two goals and providing three assists. His performances have attracted interest from several European clubs, though Newcastle United’s interest remains unverified by either club involved in the potential transfer.
The timing of the players’ departure coincides with Sporting CP’s preparation for their upcoming Primeira Liga match against Benfica, scheduled for Saturday, June 15, 2024, at the Estádio José Alvalade in Lisbon. The derby match, known as ‘O Clássico,’ is a critical fixture in the title race, with both teams separated by just two points in the league standings.
Sporting CP’s head coach Ruben Amorim confirmed in a press conference on Tuesday, June 11, 2024, that both players are expected to rejoin the squad for training later in the week and will be available for selection for the Benfica fixture, subject to their fitness and tactical considerations. Amorim emphasized the importance of maintaining squad focus ahead of the high-stakes encounter.
As of the latest verified information from Sporting CP’s official channels and Newcastle United’s communications, no formal transfer offer has been received for either player, and the club continues to operate under the assumption that both Simões and Fresneda will remain part of the squad for the immediate future.
The situation remains fluid, with transfer windows in Portugal and England set to close on September 2, 2024, and August 30, 2024, respectively. Sporting CP will continue to monitor developments and provide updates through official channels as situations evolve.
For the latest updates on Sporting CP player movements and transfer news, fans are encouraged to follow the club’s official website and social media channels. Share your thoughts on this developing story in the comments below.
