TSN's Elliotte Friedman addressed the latest rumors on the subject during his 31 Thoughts podcast, and needless to say, the relationship between the two parties appears to be more strained than ever.
According to Friedman, Eichel is trying everything in his power to force a departure, and he's reportedly putting more and more pressure on Sabres management to make a trade as soon as possible. The Sabres are reportedly just as frustrated as Eichel, but they are not willing to lower their demands in order to facilitate a trade...
EF cont'd: "I think if Adams and the Sabres felt pressure, he'd (Eichel) be traded already."� NHL Watcher (@NHL_Watcher) August 13, 2021
Friedman also added that despite the tension between the two sides, the Sabres' staff would not feel any pressure in this matter, and they are therefore ready to wait for an offer that fully meets their expectations.
Remember that the price asked by general manager Kevyn Adams for his captain would be the equivalent of about four first-round picks (either outright picks or already drafted prospects with a first-round pick caliber).
This price is considered excessive by more than one general manager across the NHL...
In short, the Sabres won't give away their superstar for peanuts. After all, this one was supposed to become the face of this organization, so it's only natural that they would want to get a HUGE return for his services...