United have not bid for Gyokeres yet but still view him as the dream addition to the attack this summer.placeholder image
United have not bid for Gyokeres yet but still view him as the dream addition to the attack this summer. | AFP via Getty Images
Man United have been heavily linked with a move for Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres, and could offer a player in exchange.
The Swedish international has an £84m release clause at Sporting, but he is expected to go for cheaper than that, as he wants to leave this summer. His form has been remarkable over the past season, scoring 54 goals in 52 games, so it is no wonder that United are so keen to sign him.
However, the Red Devils aren’t in the best position financially, and so, any way of being able to get the 26-year-old whilst spending less would be a priority for Amorim this summer.
Man United should offer Antony in a swap deal with Viktor Gyokeres
Instead of outright paying for Gyokeres, United could decide to offer one of their players in a part-exchange, in order to save some transfer funds, and likely free up some wage budget too.
One player that the Red Devils are looking to sell this summer is winger Antony, who spent the back end of last season on loan at La Liga side Real Betis. It has been reported that after an excellent spell on loan, Betis would like to sign the Brazilian permanently; however, they may struggle to afford him.
Reported by ABC Sevilla, Betis are prepared to offer Man United just £17m for Antony, either straight up, or with an obligation to buy after a one-year loan deal. However, this sits far below his market value, which is estimated to be around £30-40million.
Instead of accepting Betis’ approach, United could offer Antony in part-exchange for Gyokeres. Sporting CP will be looking for attacking talent to replace Gyokeres with, and seeing as Antony has proven that he can perform in La Liga, there is no reason why he can’t in Portugal.
Last season, the 25-year-old made 26 appearances for Betis, scoring nine goals and providing five assists. He also helped them to the Europa Conference League final against Chelsea, where they suffered defeat.
Antony became not just a fan favourite at Betis, but a favourite of his teammates too. Midfielder Isco described him as “very easy to play with, he’s insanely talented,” whilst speaking in a post-match press conference.
If United were to offer Antony as part of a deal for Gyokeres, they would likely have to add on at least £40m, assuming that Sporting would be willing to do a swap, and bring the Brazilian to Lisbon.
Antony attracting Premier League interest
Betis aren’t alone in their desire to sign Antony this summer, as it has been reported this week that two Premier League teams are also keen to sign him, despite his previous struggles in the English top division.
However, the report does add that the Brazilian winger wants a move back to Betis, and that he is making it his priority moving forward. But, maybe the Red Devils could convince him to go to Portugal instead.
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