Viktor Gyokeres Sporting CP
Manchester United have made it no secret that they would like to sign a new striker this summer.
The Red Devils have been linked with a number of names but one that has been on everyone’s lips ever since Ruben Amorim came to the club is Viktor Gyokeres.
News –£45million striker has signing for Manchester United on his mind – Report
As per journalist Pedro Sousa via Leonino, although Arsenal have an agreement with the player on personal terms, Man Utd are among the club willing to meet Sporting’s valuation of the player at around £69million including add-ons, something the Gunners aren’t yet willing to do.
Here is what the journalist had to say:
“There are clubs that want to pay 70 million plus 10 million . Manchester United would pay 70 million plus 10 million tomorrow, but I don’t know if he (Frederico Varandas) still answers the phone to Ruben Amorim.”
Manchester United desperately need a prolific goalscorer to lead the front line to ease out the pressure on Rasmus Hojlund and ensure competitive firepower. Gyokeres, with a tally of 68 league goals since 2023, including 29 last season, perfectly fits the bill.
Gyokeres and Amorim have had an excellent working relationship at Sporting. “I can’t thank [Amorim] enough… the style of play we had under him suited me perfectly”… said the Swedish striker, when talking about his former manager.
However, the journalist mentions that Sporting’s president no longer answers Amorim’s calls, and the manager may have severed direct lines with his old club after leaving them mid-season, potentially complicating negotiations.
Man Utd are behind Arsenal in the race
£69 million is a major outlay, though United have shown a willingness to meet it without haggling. That said, the player has already reached an agreement with Arsenal, which shows he is prioritizing a move elsewhere.
In terms of profile, Gyokeres perfectly complements Man Utd’s attack, offering goal output, mobility and hunger.
Additionally, such a marquee signing sends a message to fans about the club’s pulling power despite not having European football to offer.
Despite United’s desire to pay the fee, Man Utd is currently on standby, as Arsenal continue to weigh their options for the 27-year-old this summer.
The Red Devils can be attentive and it remains to be seen how this saga plays out.