Manchester United Makes Bold Move to Hijack Viktor Gyokeres Deal as Next Transfer Target Emerges
Following the completion of Bryan Mbeumo's transfer, Manchester United are now turning their attention to acquiring a pure striker, with fresh reports indicating another chance to outmaneuver Arsenal for Sporting CP's Viktor Gyökeres.
While Arsenal have established fundamental terms with Sporting, they remain entangled in final negotiation phases regarding Gyökeres. A comprehensive deal worth approximately €73.5 million (£63.7 million, $85.8 million) has been settled, though disagreements persist over the structure of performance-related clauses.
Sporting's patience is wearing thin, already irritated by Gyökeres's behavior during this transfer window, with several Portuguese media sources reporting a potential approach from longtime suitors United earlier this week.
As reported by Fabrizio Romano, intermediaries and representatives connected to Sporting contacted United late Monday evening, encouraging them to attempt disrupting Arsenal's pursuit of Gyökeres.
Nevertheless, upon learning of this opportunity, Gyökeres immediately communicated with both Sporting and Arsenal, reaffirming his exclusive commitment to joining the Emirates Stadium and effectively dismissing any possibility of moving to United.
The Athletic reports that United are actively pursuing a new center-forward following the successful completion of Bryan Mbeumo's signing. Head coach Ruben Amorim holds Gyökeres in high regard from their time together at Sporting, prompting an initial inquiry for the Swedish striker, though his unwavering desire to join Arsenal halted further progress.
A bid for Liverpool-bound Hugo Ekitiké also collapsed last week, while RB Leipzig's Benjamin Šeško, Aston Villa's Ollie Watkins and Chelsea's Nicolas Jackson are all considered financially prohibitive at present. Consequently, United are "focusing more heavily on backup options".
Additionally, United seek reinforcements in defensive midfield and goalkeeping positions, though their transfer activity will largely depend on revenue generated from player departures.