Viktor Gyokeres Sporting CP striker
Image Credits: GETTY IMAGES
Manchester United’s summer transfer focus has zeroed in on finding a reliable striker to lead the line next season.
Rasmus Hojlund endured an inconsistent campaign at Old Trafford, and now said to be ‘on trial’.
The Red Devils club feel the need to add a more experienced forward capable of delivering goals at the highest level.
United had made a strong attempt to sign Englishman Liam Delap from Ipswich Town.
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However, that pursuit ended in disappointment when Delap opted to join Chelsea instead, with Champions League football proving decisive.
Having missed out on Delap, United have expanded their shortlist to include a range of profiles, with names like Hugo Ekitike and Sporting CP star Viktor Gyokeres now in the frame.
However, according to Portuguese outlet A Bola, Gyokeres has made it clear once again that a move to Manchester United is not of interest to him.
A Bola reports that Gyokeres prefers a move to England.
However only to clubs like Arsenal, Manchester City or Liverpool – ruling out United from his preferred list.
The Swedish striker, who scored 54 goals and assisted 13 more last season, is said to be furious and disappointed with Sporting due to a broken promise regarding a summer exit.
Last year, then-sporting director Hugo Viana reportedly told Gyokeres and his agent he could leave in 2025 for €60-70m – below his €100m release clause.
That promise created a strong expectation of departure this summer, particularly with interest from the Premier League.
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Arsenal are currently the frontrunners for his signature, having made informal contact with Sporting and discussed a potential €55m + €10m offer in add-ons.
Sporting president Frederico Varandas has responded firmly, stating he will not accept anything below €80m.
As well as the fact that Gyokeres “does not leave for €60m + €10m.”
There is also an added layer of complexity with a clause in the striker’s deal requiring Sporting to pay 10% of any rejected bid over €60m to his agent.
Something the club is reportedly looking to contest.
With Arsenal fans publicly urging their club to complete the signing, and Gyokeres snubbing United, the Red Devils may have to shift focus once again in their striker hunt.
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