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Real Madrid turn down move for Manchester United target

Manchester United’s hunt for a new striker continues to take centre stage as the club reshapes its attack ahead of the 2025/26 season.

Manager Ruben Amorim is expected to bring in at least one forward to complement Rasmus Hojlund if he is to stay at the club, especially with ongoing doubts surrounding the futures of Marcus Rashford and Antony.

Matheus Cunha’s arrival from Wolves marked the first major move of the window, but United remain in the market for a natural No. 9 with elite-level finishing and a physical presence up front.

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While several names have been shortlisted, including Hugo Ekitike and Jean-Philippe Mateta, one particular forward remains high on the club’s radar — and recent developments may play into United’s hands.

Viktor Gyokeres has been ruled out as a transfer target by Real Madrid, giving Manchester United a potential free run at the prolific Sporting CP striker.

According to Spanish journalist Mario Cortegana via The Athletic, Real were offered the chance to sign Gyokeres but passed on the opportunity, despite his outstanding season in Portugal.

The 26-year-old netted a staggering 54 goals and provided 13 assists across all competitions during the 2024/25 campaign, firmly establishing himself as one of Europe’s most lethal strikers.

However, new Madrid boss Xabi Alonso is looking for a short-term back-up rather than a marquee starter, preferring profiles like Joselu who can accept limited minutes without unsettling the squad’s hierarchy.

While Real admire Gyokeres’ qualities, his starting ambitions and hefty price tag reportedly worked against any potential deal.

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Reports previously suggested that Gyokeres favoured a move to Arsenal, but the London club are now said to have withdrawn from the race.

This opens the door for United, who remain one of the few top clubs actively pursuing a leading striker this window.

Sporting CP president Frederico Varandas recently warned that the Swede won’t leave for anything close to €60m plus add-ons, stating: “The game the agent is playing will only make the situation worse.

“As of now, we haven’t had one offer for him.”

Despite the warning, United are known to have scouted Viktor Gyokeres extensively under Amorim, who coached the striker during their title-winning season at Sporting — a relationship that could prove key in negotiations.

With Real Madrid stepping aside, the path is now clear for Manchester United to make a move — if they’re willing to pay the price.

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