Arsenal and Manchester United target Viktor Gyokeres will refuse to return to Sporting to force his departure
There is uncertainty at Old Trafford as Manchester United’s management seeks solutions to strengthen the attack. Fans are still waiting for a reliable striker who can make a difference in big games. The name Viktor Gyokeres has been circulating for weeks amid rumours and leaks.
Last season, he made it clear why both Arsenal and the Red Devils took notice of him: powerful physique, goal-scoring instinct and a hunger to be a star player in a bigger team. The rumours have continued to grow. All this is happening while Ruben Amorim tries to close ranks and avoid further distractions in a key summer for defining the club’s new era.
According to the Record, Gyokeres has decided to push Sporting Lisbon to the limit and is threatening not to return to training. The Swedish striker, annoyed by statements made by president Frederico Varandas, is said to have already decided to force his departure this summer.
How would Gyokeres’ reported unrest impact his fit within Manchester United’s squad dynamics?
The anger stems from Sporting seeking to raise the final price despite an alleged agreement to let him leave for less than his release clause. Now there is talk of a strike, even of making his criticism public if he does not get a move. Manchester United are watching closely. They know that Arsenal are in the running, but Gyokeres wants a big contract, and the Premier League is tempting. If no alternatives emerge, it could become one of the soap operas of this transfer window.
Opinion:
This raises the big question: should Manchester United go for the 27-year-old even though they know he could arrive with an open conflict? A player’s character influences the dressing room, and not all managers tolerate players who are willing to pressure a club to let them leave. The risk of bringing in a player who is willing to stand his ground must be assessed.
A stand-off can be effective in forcing a sale, but it reveals a personality that could clash with a group that already needs stability. Today, United cannot afford to add more internal problems. The Swede offers a different option to Rasmus Højlund. He has power, holds his own with his back to goal and does not shy away from direct duels, something that is in short supply.
Is it worth Manchester United meeting Sporting’s increased transfer fee demands for Gyokeres?
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However, Gyokeres’ signing would not come cheap. Sporting are trying to raise the bid, taking advantage of Arsenal’s interest in the deal. Paying over the odds for a player with this history of tension does not always work out well. Just look at other cases of problematic strikers in the league.
Furthermore, Gyokeres does not have the same elite track record as others, such as Harry Kane or Lautaro Martínez. Compared to them, Viktor remains a risky bet. If it were up to us, we would prioritise profiles that fit in with the collective idea and do not generate noise before signing. Ambition is key, but respect for contracts and club timings says a lot about a professional’s commitment. United need goals, yes, but they also need consistency in every decision. Sometimes it is better to wait than to rush into something.