Manchester United Shift Focus to Gyokeres as Kane Hopes Fade | OneFootball

Kane Cool on Move as United Eye Gyokeres Alternative

Kane Content to Stay at Bayern

Manchester United’s hopes of signing Harry Kane this summer appear to be dwindling. As per talkSPORT, sources close to the England captain have revealed that Kane is “more than happy to extend his stay in Germany for another season.” Despite his goalscoring exploits, it seems United may have to look elsewhere.

Kane’s numbers speak for themselves. With 36 goals in 44 appearances this season for Bayern Munich, and 44 goals in total during his debut campaign in Bavaria, he remains one of the most clinical strikers in world football. Yet his focus appears to have shifted from a Premier League return to chasing silverware on the continent.

talkSPORT also highlighted that Kane has his eyes on winning the Champions League with Bayern next term. That ambition, coupled with Bayern’s impending Bundesliga title, has added weight to the idea he’ll remain at the Allianz Arena.

Photo: IMAGO

Price Drop Could Tempt, But Will It Be Enough?

Earlier reports from German outlet BILD suggested Kane’s release clause stood at £67 million in January. However, that figure has reportedly dropped to £54 million for the summer window — a tempting number for a 31-year-old who guarantees goals. United, still searching for a consistent presence up front, would undoubtedly have taken note.

Yet as talkSPORT notes, “Kane is now targeting Champions League success with Bayern next season,” effectively ending any serious approach from Old Trafford — for now.

United’s decision to pass on Kane in 2023, instead opting to sign Rasmus Hojlund from Atalanta, continues to haunt. Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee have combined for just 16 goals in all competitions this season, while United have scored only 39 Premier League goals in 34 games — an unflattering tally for a club of such stature.

Gyokeres Emerges as New Focus

With Kane seemingly unavailable, the attention at Old Trafford is turning to Portugal. Reports from Football Insider suggest a deal for Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres is considered a “done deal,” with United confident they’ll “finalise an agreement.”

Gyokeres, who flourished under Ruben Amorim in Lisbon, has netted 52 goals and laid on 12 assists in 48 games this season — staggering numbers. His connection with Amorim is believed to be a key factor in the transfer’s progression. According to the report, “Sources say the forward’s relationship with Amorim has now swung the deal in United’s favour.”

Photo: IMAGO

Though his contract includes a €100 million release clause, a “verbal pact” with Sporting’s hierarchy allows the Swede to depart for between €65m-€70m. Still a hefty fee, but potentially a wise investment given his age and form.

Arsenal Provide Fresh Competition

Despite United’s strong position, Arsenal are also monitoring Gyokeres closely. With Mikel Arteta’s side looking to evolve tactically, the addition of a physically imposing and prolific striker like Gyokeres would make strategic sense. United may have to move quickly and decisively to avoid losing another top target.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For  Manchester United fans, this latest Kane update is yet another chapter in a frustrating saga. First, the club hesitated in 2023, allowing Bayern to swoop in. Now, even with a reduced fee, Kane’s ambitions lie elsewhere.

One can hardly blame him. The prospect of winning trophies, playing with elite-level teammates, and chasing the Champions League in Germany clearly outweighs returning to a United side still mired in transition.

But there’s cautious optimism around Viktor Gyokeres. His stats are off the charts, and his relationship with Amorim could spark something new at Old Trafford — provided the club doesn’t stall again. Fans are tired of near misses. What they crave is decisive action.

And yet, there’s a familiar anxiety creeping in. The feeling that United could once more be gazumped by a more strategic club — this time Arsenal. Supporters will hope that the club’s hierarchy understands the urgency of the moment and backs their manager with the firepower required.

With a deal close, Gyokeres feels like the right target at the right time. Now it’s up to United to deliver.