Man Utd move into pole position as striker changes transfer stance | OneFootball

Gyokeres Makes U-Turn as Manchester United Emerge as Favourites for Key No.9 Role

United regain ground as Gyokeres refocuses Premier League ambitions

Viktor Gyokeres has shifted his stance in one of this summer’s more unpredictable transfer stories, with Manchester United now considered his preferred destination. After months of speculation linking the Swedish striker with Arsenal, the player is reportedly now prioritising a move to Old Trafford.

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As The Mirror reports, the 27-year-old had originally leaned towards joining Mikel Arteta’s side, drawn by the promise of Champions League football and a squad capable of challenging for the Premier League title. However, with Arsenal’s attention now directed towards RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko, Gyokeres has realigned his focus and is eyeing a reunion with former boss Ruben Amorim.

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Intermediaries have already made contact with Manchester United to indicate the forward’s openness to a move, with the Swede eager to test himself in the Premier League after a prolific spell in Portugal.

Price disagreement clouds Sporting exit

Sporting Lisbon remain firm on their valuation, believed to be in the region of £86 million. This has caused significant friction between the club and the player’s representatives, with accusations emerging from Sporting president Frederico Varandas that Gyokeres’ camp misrepresented a “gentleman’s agreement” suggesting a £59 million release pathway.

Despite scoring an astonishing 54 goals in 52 games last season, Sporting claim no formal bids have yet been tabled. Gyokeres has reportedly refused a return to pre-season training, fuelling belief that his departure is inevitable. That said, suitors across Europe have hesitated at Sporting’s asking price, and a resolution remains distant without movement on valuation.

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Gyokeres’ form since joining from Coventry City has been electric, notching 97 goals in 102 games. His profile, output, and age make him an ideal solution for United’s long-term striker void, but the price remains a barrier.

Market interest narrows despite prolific record

Several elite European clubs have distanced themselves from the race. Real Madrid are said to be pursuing a backup striker more akin to Joselu, rather than a marquee signing. Liverpool have no interest in pursuing the Swedish forward, despite recent links, and Bayern Munich, with Harry Kane leading their line, are not in the market. Juventus have monitored the situation but lack the finances for a deal, while Barcelona and PSG have not been convinced.

Al-Hilal made a substantial £55 million offer earlier this summer, which was rejected by Sporting, but Gyokeres was never enticed by the prospect of a move to Saudi Arabia. His ambitions remain squarely in Europe’s top five leagues.

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That leaves Manchester United and Arsenal as the primary contenders. With Arsenal moving ahead on Sesko, the door has opened for United to reassert themselves in the chase.

United’s transfer model requires patience

Any move for Gyokeres may hinge on United’s ability to raise funds. With Matheus Cunha already signed and Bryan Mbeumo also nearing completion, United need outgoings before sanctioning another high-cost addition.

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The club are open to offers for a range of first-team players. Alejandro Garnacho, Marcus Rashford, and Jadon Sancho are among those reportedly not in Amorim’s future plans, while the club remains hopeful of receiving a suitable offer from Real Betis for Antony.

Once funds are freed up, United are expected to re-enter talks with Sporting, this time with Gyokeres clearly onside. Whether a compromise can be struck over the fee remains to be seen, but the player’s intent may prove decisive.

United’s underwhelming campaign last season has created pressure to land a proven No.9. With few top-tier alternatives available at an affordable price, Gyokeres now appears the most realistic option.

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Viktor Gyokeres has always looked like a natural fit for what this team needs: physical presence, instinctive finishing and a ruthless edge in front of goal. The fact he is now actively prioritising a move to Old Trafford speaks volumes.

The most encouraging aspect is his intent. Turning down big money from Saudi Arabia and pushing for a Premier League move shows he has the right ambition. After watching United’s attack struggle for goals and fluidity last season, Gyokeres feels like the sort of player who could genuinely transform their final third.

Yes, the price is steep. But 54 goals in a single campaign cannot be ignored. He’s done it in Europe, he’s consistent, and at 27, he’s ready to lead the line from day one. If United can sort the sales of fringe players and make this happen, it would signal a decisive shift in how they operate, focused, ruthless, and properly aligned with the manager’s needs.