Man Utd closing in on deal for long-standing first choice striker chosen by Amorim

Manchester United are closing in on a sensational move for Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres, after a dramatic twist in the transfer saga saw the Swedish star perform a U-turn on his preferred destination.

Once heavily linked with Arsenal, Gyokeres is now set on a switch to Old Trafford, with United readying a £60 million (€71m) bid to secure his signature.

Gyokeres, who netted an extraordinary 54 goals last season, had initially prioritised a move to a Champions League club and was believed to favour Arsenal, reported The Mirror.

However, with the Gunners shifting their focus towards RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko and failing to meet Sporting’s £59.6 million asking price, the door has opened for United to swoop in.

The 27-year-old, frustrated by Sporting’s refusal to lower their valuation and eager to leave, has now made it clear through intermediaries that he is ready to join United—even without the lure of Champions League football.

United’s pursuit is being driven by new manager Ruben Amorim, who previously coached Gyokeres at Sporting and played a key role in his development into one of Europe’s most prolific forwards.

Amorim sees Gyokeres as the ideal striker to spearhead United’s rebuild, especially with the club’s other forwards struggling for form last season.

The Red Devils are optimistic about sealing the deal, with Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s backing and a clear path to negotiations after Arsenal’s withdrawal.

Gyokeres is said to be excited by the prospect of reuniting with Amorim and leading United’s attack, believing in the club’s project and their potential to return to the top of English football.

Sporting are holding firm on their price, but United are determined to wrap up the transfer swiftly before Arsenal or other clubs can re-enter the race. If completed, Gyokeres would be a statement signing for United, bringing physicality, clinical finishing, and much-needed firepower to Old Trafford