Manchester United are anticipated to sign a marquee striker during the summer transfer window.
The Red Devils had a dismal 2024/25 Premier League campaign, where they scored just 44 goals from 38 appearances.
Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee managed only seven goals between them in the English top flight.
United clearly need an upgrade on the duo, and they have made ‘initial contact‘ for Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres.
Record (page 6) now claim that Gyokeres has informed Sporting CP that he ‘won’t play’ for them again.
The Sweden international feels let down by the promise he considers ‘broken’ by Sporting CP.
Gyokeres had a gentleman’s agreement to leave the Portuguese champions for £51 million plus £8.5m in add-ons.
However, Sporting CP have backtracked on the promise and are now demanding £68m to sanction his departure.
Gyokeres feels disrespected by Sporting CP and has no desire to wear the club’s shirt anymore.
Alongside United, Arsenal, Juventus and Al Hilal are interested in signing the former Coventry City man.
United have to pay more to land Gyokeres
The 27-year-old had a sensational 2024/25 campaign with Sporting CP. He registered 54 goals and 13 assists from just 52 appearances in all competitions.
Gyokeres is prepared to pursue a bigger challenge in his career, but a transfer has become problematic, as Sporting CP are holding out for a much higher fee.
United are walking a tightrope when it comes to the Profit and Sustainability Rules. The increased price tag could prove an additional stumbling block for them.
They are unlikely to pay the fee in one lumpsum, and the focus could be on negotiating a long-term payment plan over multiple seasons with Sporting CP.
United face another major hurdle with the increasing interest from Premier League rivals Arsenal.
Gyokeres’ representative has today held talks with executives from the Gunners, as per CNN Portugal.
The news outlet claim the Sweden international has wanted the north London outfit from the beginning and has stated his desire ‘very openly’ to his agent.
Arsenal seem to be prioritising a deal for RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko, but they would be in strong position to land Gyokeres if they change their stance.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com