Viktor Gyokeres has been continually linked with Man United and a reunion with old boss Ruben Amorim, while the Swede's family and girlfriend have already shared details about his transfer prospects
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Viktor Gyokeres
Viktor Gyokeres may turn to his family for guidance on where to take his career this summer
(Image: Getty Images)
Many a Manchester United fan would love to see the club complete a deal for Viktor Gyokeres this summer. But a transfer may be difficult to execute considering the comments made by his nearest and dearest in recent days.
The former Coventry City talisman celebrated a trophy-laden sophomore season with Sporting CP, where he was signed by current United boss Ruben Amorim. Gyokeres, 26, led the Lions to the Primeira Liga title for the second straight year and also finished as the league's top scorer once again, netting 54 times across all competitions.
Sporting came from behind to beat Benfica 3-1 to clinch the Taca de Portugal on Sunday, where Gyokeres' 101st-minute penalty forced extra time. And his actress girlfriend, Ines Aguiar, was confronted at the match as many sought to squeeze answers on what lies in store for her prolific partner.
Lisbon-born Aguiar was crowded by fans and faced questions over whether Gyokeres would be staying in Portugal next term. A Bola reported the influencer told those baying for answers that she "promises" to try her best in persuading the in-demand striker to stay with the club for a third season.
A partner's preference can drastically influence transfer matters, and Manchester can sometimes be a tough sell to those from hot climates. Not to mention the absence of any European football at Old Trafford next season is going to be a deterrent.
Gyokeres' uncle, Chris, also shed light on his nephew's future as he addressed the media at the Taca de Portugal final. As it turned out, the Gyokeres family held a dinner the night before the cup decider, where the superstar's future happened to come up in conversation.
Ines Aguiar
Ines Aguiar
Ines Aguiar
The Lisbon-born actress could play a big role in any summer transfer
And Uncle Chris was forthcoming about what went on during that debate, or at least the version he wanted to relay. The Swede's family have become infatuated with Lisbon since Viktor moved to the Estadio Jose Alvalade in 2023, and Chris confirmed his wish is for the United target to stay put.
"Yes, very much," he told Sport.TV when asked if he and his family members felt connected to Lisbon. "Yesterday at dinner we decided that he has to stay."
United won't be as concerned with what Gyokeres' family have decided so much as they will be the forward himself. Much has been made of the bond he and Amorim are sure to share after the manager first brought him to Portugal, but Old Trafford doesn't boast the same allure of old.
Premier League rivals Arsenal and Chelsea have also been linked with a move for the player, and both of those clubs will be in the Champions League next season. Meanwhile, United are understood to be on the verge of signing Wolves attacker Matheus Cunha for £62.5m, which could suggest they've diverted their attention elsewhere.
Viktor Gyokeres celebrates Sporting CP's Taca de Portugal win over Benfica
The Swede scored in injury time to force extra time before winning the Taca de Portugal on Sunday
Arsenal are also believed to have held talks with the striker's agent after Correio da Manha reported a delegation had flown to Lisbon. And the prospect of joining Mikel Arteta's Gunners may look like the more appealing prospect at present.
From Sporting's perspective, there's no sense of urgency or panic to cash in on the player, who would supposedly be available for £60million. Vice-president Francisco Salgado Zenha recently spoke at a press conference held by Radio Renascenca's Bola Branca and gave an update on the player's situation.
"Gyokeres? He has three more years on his contract," said the Sporting official in stern manner. "At the moment, there are no offers. He has three more years on his contract. I think the answer has been given."