Viktor Gyökeres is reportedly pushing hard to leave Sporting this summer, with Manchester United now firmly positioned as a leading contender for his signature.
According to Record Portugal, the 26-year-old striker is growing increasingly frustrated with the lack of movement over a summer transfer — to the point where he has threatened to go on strike if Sporting continue to block his exit.
Gyökeres, who scored a remarkable 54 goals and registered 13 assists across all competitions in 2024/25, has been a revelation under Rúben Amorim.
But with Amorim now leading Manchester United’s rebuild, the Swedish forward is eager to follow his former boss to Old Trafford.
“He wants the move. He knows it’s now or never,” a source close to the player told Record. “Gyökeres believes he’s earned the right to test himself in the Premier League.”
Sporting are demanding the full €100 million release clause, but United believe they can negotiate a deal closer to €65–70 million, potentially structured with add-ons.
The Portuguese club are reluctant to sell unless the clause is met, but pressure from the player is mounting.
United, meanwhile, are in desperate need of firepower. Despite signing Matheus Cunha, the club is looking to add a prolific striker to take pressure off Rasmus Højlund, who endured an inconsistent first season.
“Gyökeres is built for English football — he’s powerful, intelligent, and relentless,” said Portuguese journalist Pedro Sepúlveda. “If United land him, it’s a game-changer.”
Arsenal and Chelsea have also been monitoring the situation, but United’s existing relationship between Amorim and Gyökeres could prove decisive.
Amorim is understood to have already spoken directly with the striker, making it clear that he will be a key figure in the club’s new attacking structure — potentially lining up alongside Cunha and Garnacho in a flexible 3-4-3 system.
Sporting return for pre-season later this month, and if no agreement is reached soon, the situation could escalate publicly.
Gyökeres wants out. United want in. The deal now hinges on who blinks first — Sporting’s board or United’s negotiating team.
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