Manchester United have been handed a significant boost in their interest in Sporting striker Viktor Gyökeres.
The Swedish international, who has been in scintillating form with 32 goals in 30 games across all competitions this season, has been heavily linked with a move to
Old Trafford.
A potential transfer would reunite
Gyökeres with United manager Ruben Amorim, under whom the forward has thrived at Sporting.
However, Amorim has previously assured his former club that he would not raid their squad during the January transfer window. As a result, any move for Gyökeres would likely be postponed until the summer.
Bayern Munich Shift Focus
United’s hopes of landing Gyökeres have been bolstered by
news that Bayern Munich, who were also reportedly interested in the 26-year-old, have cooled their pursuit.
The Bundesliga giants have instead turned their attention to Chelsea forward Christopher Nkunku.
According to Sky Sports Germany, Bayern have opened discussions with Chelsea over a deal for the 27-year-old Nkunku.
Despite limited playing time under Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca, Nkunku has reportedly agreed terms with Bayern and is their top transfer target for January.
Bayern are pursuing a permanent deal rather than a loan, with reports suggesting the inclusion of Mathys Tel in the negotiations.
Chelsea appear open to trimming their squad this month, with several players rumored to be on the move, including Ben Chilwell, Renato Veiga, Carney Chukwuemeka, Cesare Casadei, and Axel Disasi.
Speaking about Nkunku’s situation, Maresca downplayed the speculation but acknowledged the importance of player satisfaction.
"No, no. We didn't speak about anything with Christopher," Maresca said when asked about Nkunku's potential departure.
"But as I’ve said before, we want all our players to be happy. For those not playing, it’s normal they’re not happy. Christopher, like any player, wants to play and feel valued. It’s the same for him at 27, just as it is for younger players."
Summer Opportunity for United
With Bayern Munich seemingly out of the running for Gyökeres, United could have a clearer path to secure the striker’s signature in the summer.
The prolific forward would address United's need for a clinical presence up front, and his familiarity with Amorim's system makes him an ideal candidate to bolster the squad.
Gyökeres’ potential move could signal a pivotal addition to United’s attacking lineup, further strengthening their ambitions for success under Amorim's leadership.