Sporting have reportedly omitted Joelson Fernandes from their squad for Saturday night's Lisbon derby against Benfica.
The decision comes amid the ongoing deadlock in negotiations over a new contract for the teenage winger.
The Portuguese club are understood to be keen on increasing Fernandes' release clause in his contract, which currently stands at €45million (£41million).
But the midfielder is yet to put pen to paper, which increases the possibility that Sporting may be forced to sell.
Arsenal are one of several clubs who have been linked with a move for the winger, with Portuguese news channel TVI 24 claiming the Gunners have followed up their interest with a £13.6million offer.
And according to A Bola, Fernandes has not been named in the squad for the game against Benfica despite featuring in Sporting's last few matches.
The outlet claim that the player's agent Kia Joorabchian, as well as Arsenal representatives are expected to arrive in Portugal between Monday or Tuesday, with the aim of meeting with Sporting officials for further talks.
Fernandes has previously said that he is "flattered" to be linked with a move away from the Portuguese capital.
"It is true that being compared to these players puts a little extra pressure on me," Fernandes told O Jogo in a recent interview when asked about being compared to the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo.
"I try to follow their example and play the best I can in each game.
"It is very flattering and I think it represents the value of my work," Fernandes added, on the subject of the reported interest.
"I did not look at that alleged interest very much, I am happy where I am and fighting to achieve my dream, which is to play for Sporting's first team.
"Nobody has told me about this extension offer yet. Besides, I try not to think about these things too much. I just want to play football."
