The Swedish striker’s possible reunion with his former manager could be a crucial piece in Manchester United’s major restructuring plans this summer.
A day after Viktor Gyökeres hammered in four goals in Sunday’s league game, to an incredible 52 goals in 48 games this season, there was a rumor around the ball island that the super Swede was a done deal for Manchester United. Talk about good news for the United supporters! The next day, Sky Sports journalist Florian Plettenberg has made the round of calls to his sources, United supporters will probably have to wait with the celebrations.
Because according to Plettenberg, there is no agreement between Gyökeres and United. Nor any green light from the Swede that it will be Old Trafford.
Sporting CP’s star player Viktor Gyökeres’ future has been the subject of intense speculation since Rúben Amorim took over as Manchester United manager.
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United have struggled with a lack of goalscorers all season under both Amorim and predecessor Erik ten Hag, and a new striker will be at the top of their wish list in the summer transfer window.
Record-breaking season
Gyökeres (26) impressed at Amorim in Portugal, and with United’s attacking problems in a disappointing Premier League season, the link between player and club has become natural.
The former Coventry City player is said to be open to a return to England. While Arsenal are also heavily interested, a reunion with Amorim may seem appealing – but according to transfer expert Christopher Michel, there is one crucial factor that will guide Gyökeres’ decision:
“Viktor Gyökeres will be a hot topic in the summer transfer window!” writes Michel on X (formerly Twitter). “But he wants to play in the Champions League. Arsenal and Chelsea are very interested, [Man Utd] are watching closely, Amorim developed him.”
United’s challenge
With United’s poor position in the Premier League (currently 8th), there is only one way to the Champions League for the club: to win the Europa League.
United secured a place in the semi-finals after a spectacular comeback victory over Lyon in the quarter-finals. They will now face Athletic Bilbao in the semi-finals, with the final against either Tottenham or Bodø/Glimt as a possible next step.
“To have a realistic chance, the club probably has to win the Europa League,” Michel confirms.
Manchester United are together with Bodø/Glimt, Tottenham and Athletic Bilbao are the last four in the Europa League.
Player holds all cards
The situation underlines how strong Gyökeres’ negotiating position is. With an impressive scoring record (32 goals in 43 games for Sporting this season) and the Champions League claim, it could be a tough game for United – especially with competition from Arsenal.
Both United and Arsenal are among many top clubs that desperately need a goalscorer, and Gyökeres knows that he has the opportunity to choose.
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