Viktor Gyökeres is once again at the centre of the English transfer market spotlight. Both Manchester United and Arsenal are going all out in the race to land the prolific Swedish striker, though the exact cost of a potential deal remains a major question mark. Gyökeres has been nothing short of extraordinary at Sporting CP, netting 97 goals in just 102 appearances, a staggering return that has put Old Trafford and the Emirates Stadium at the forefront of speculation regarding his return to English football. However, negotiations have stalled amid a pricing dispute involving the Sporting president, and talks are effectively on hold until a concrete offer is placed on the table.
Manchester United’s interest remains strong. The club recognises the need to reinforce its frontline, and Gyökeres is a top candidate on their shortlist. According to Fabrizio Romano via his newsletter for GIVEMESPORT, both United and Arsenal are maintaining active contact with the striker’s representatives, but the situation hinges on resolving internal matters in Lisbon. Rúben Amorim, now United’s head coach, is eager to reunite with the forward who played a key role in his success at Sporting.
With Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee yet to fully convince, United’s decision-makers see a marquee striker as crucial to reshaping their attack. Gyökeres, with his physical presence, consistent finishing, and ability to perform under pressure, is viewed as the kind of transformative signing that could elevate the team’s offensive identity — and bring back a familiar spark to Amorim’s new project in Manchester.
Viktor Gyokeres in action, as Manchester United and Arsenal vie for the prolific Sporting striker’s signature.
“First thing to do is clarifying the exit price from Sporting after trouble with the president. Both Arsenal and Man United remain keen and in contact with his camp.”
Gyökeres has scored more goals in one season than Manchester United’s entire attack has managed across the past two. His efficiency is not up for debate. But beyond the statistics, there are deeper questions the club must answer. Should United move now for the 27-year-old Swede? From a sporting perspective, the answer seems clear. While Rasmus Højlund is still developing and Joshua Zirkzee remains a project, Gyökeres is not a work in progress, he is ready-made. He can lead the line from day one, and that’s exactly what United need if they intend to compete seriously at the highest level.
The club continues to explore other forward options as well. Jean-Philippe Mateta is also on Manchester United’s list of summer targets, offering a different profile, but the urgency for a consistent and proven goalscorer makes Gyökeres a standout candidate in a summer that may define the club’s attacking future.
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But can Amorim make the difference? It’s a crucial factor that shouldn’t be overlooked. The same coach who elevated Gyökeres to elite status in Portugal is now leading Manchester United and that relationship could prove decisive if the striker has any doubts. While Arsenal may offer the allure of Champions League football, Amorim can provide something no other club can: a familiar system, unwavering trust, and a guaranteed role from day one. That kind of stability can outweigh any external promise.
As for the uncertain price tag? Yes, it’s a risk but United have taken bigger ones with far less justification. The club paid a premium for Antony without blinking, and in comparison, the potential return on Gyökeres is far more tangible. At 27, he combines Premier League experience, physical dominance, and clinical finishing. If Sporting set a high fee, United must assess the cost carefully but hesitation out of fear would be a mistake. The club cannot endure another season defined by an ineffective attack. If United’s leadership is serious about ending their cycle of improvisation up front, Gyökeres represents the kind of decisive move they must make now.