Manchester United Maintain Strong Interest in Viktor Gyökeres Amid Financial Obstacles
Manchester United remain highly interested in signing Swedish striker Viktor Gyökeres, but financial hurdles are complicating the potential deal. According to Fabrizio Romano, while the club greatly admires the prolific forward, completing a transfer is anything but simple.
Gyökeres has been sensational since joining Sporting CP in 2023, flourishing under Rúben Amorim—now United’s head coach.
The 26-year-old boasts an extraordinary record, with 95 goals and 27 assists in just 98 appearances. His explosive form has captured attention across Europe.
Amorim’s system, which demands a strong, versatile striker to spearhead the attack, was tailored to Gyökeres’ strengths.
His success at Sporting has underscored United’s current shortcomings in the forward line, where neither Rasmus Højlund nor target Joshua Zirkzee has fully delivered in a similar role.
With United’s attacking woes persisting through the season—both under Amorim and former boss Erik ten Hag—the club is eager for a proven finisher.
Florian Plettenberg reports that talks have begun between United and Gyökeres’ representatives, but no agreement is in place yet, and the player is still weighing his options. Arsenal and several other top European clubs are also monitoring the situation.
Romano adds that a key obstacle is Gyökeres’ reported €100 million (£85 million) release clause, which poses a major challenge for United.
Their ability to pursue the deal may depend on player sales and potential qualification for the Champions League through the Europa League.
As a more cost-effective alternative, the club is also considering Liam Delap from Ipswich Town. Following Ipswich’s relegation, Delap is available for £30 million due to a release clause. While Gyökeres remains Amorim’s top choice, budget limitations may force United to explore other options.
In summary, while United are serious about landing Gyökeres, financial constraints and competition from other clubs leave the outcome uncertain.
