Manchester United could finally get their man as
Viktor Gyökeres has said he is open to a move to
Old Trafford.
The 27-year-old Swedish international enjoyed an extraordinary 2024-2025 campaign, contributing an astounding 54 goals and 13 assists across all competitions for Sporting.
This exceptional form saw him clinch the Liga Portugal Golden Boot and Player of the Season award, underlining his consistent and decisive impact.
A Crucial Shift in Player Stance
Perhaps the most pivotal update in this ongoing transfer saga is the indication that Gyökeres is now "open" to joining Manchester United, even in the absence of Champions League football next season, reported
Goal.com.
This represents a significant shift from previous assumptions that elite European competition would be a non-negotiable factor for him. This positive development suggests a growing interest from the player in the project being built at Old Trafford.
The Amorim Connection: A Key Factor
A strong and undeniable factor in United's favour is the presence of our new manager, Ruben Amorim.
The professional relationship between Amorim and Gyökeres at Sporting CP was incredibly fruitful, with the striker blossoming into a top-tier talent under the Portuguese coach's guidance.
It is understood that Amorim has maintained contact with Gyökeres, and he is reportedly eager to rekindle that successful partnership in Manchester. This established rapport and understanding of his tactical system could be a compelling draw for Gyökeres.
The Financial Details: A Realistic Valuation?
Sporting CP initially set a release clause of €100 million (£85 million) for their star forward. However, current reports suggest that Sporting may now be willing to negotiate a lower fee, with figures around £60 million (€70 million) being widely cited.
This potential reduction is attributed to a verbal agreement from last summer, which would allow Gyökeres to depart for a more accessible price if he stayed for the 2024-2025 season. While still a substantial investment, this adjusted valuation makes the transfer a more viable option for United.
Meeting the Financial Requirements: The Need for Outgoings
It's important to acknowledge that any significant incoming transfer, such as that for Gyökeres, will likely necessitate player sales to ensure the club adheres to financial regulations.
Speculation continues regarding the futures of players like Marcus Rashford, Antony, and Jadon Sancho, whose departures could generate the necessary funds and free up substantial wage bill space to facilitate a move for Gyökeres (who would command a significant salary, reportedly over £200,000 per week).
Outlook: A Promising Opportunity
While formal negotiations between Manchester United and Sporting CP are yet to officially commence, the latest reports paint a promising picture.
Gyökeres's reported openness to the move, coupled with the influential factor of Amorim and a seemingly more negotiable transfer fee, combine to create a genuine and compelling opportunity for Manchester United this summer.
The club's hierarchy will now need to act decisively to translate this interest into a concrete deal, aiming to bring a proven goalscorer to Old Trafford and bolster our attacking ambitions.