Latest Manchester United transfer news
Manchester United are gearing up for a summer of transformation, and top of their desirable list of attacking reinforcements is Sporting CP's Viktor Gyökeres. The Swedish striker has emerged as one of the continent's most clinical strikers, and while United are genuinely keen, they are by no means alone with Arsenal and Liverpool also in the hunt.
Red-Hot Form in Portugal
Gyökeres, 26 years old, has provided an extraordinary 2024–25 campaign, scoring 54 in all competitions, 39 in the Primeira Liga—a tally that helped both win the league title and the Taça de Portugal. (Source – Wikipedia)
His stoppage-time play, power, and precision finishing have seen him become one of the most sought-after stars in world football. His performance has not only attracted Manchester United scouts but also cross-city Premier League giants.
A Verbal Agreement & Potential Bargain
Even with his eye-watering figure, a transfer need not cost an arm and a leg as expected. While Gyökeres reportedly has a €100 million release clause, other sources reference a verbal agreement which can have him leave as little as €60–70 million (£52–£60m). (Source – Sports Illustrated)
That discount makes him that much more of a target for clubs who are eager to introduce instant firepower to their sides.
United's Case: Hopeful, but Complicated
Manchester United are keen on bringing Gyökeres on board Old Trafford under INEOS' new sporting arrangement. However, their absence of Champions League football is a definite negative. Gyökeres has just mentioned that he desires to play at the highest European level and Champions League football is the priority. (Source – The Peoples Person)
Manager Rúben Amorim is also reportedly cautious about signing players who are there only for European football, averring:
\"If a player only wants to come for the Champions League, he won't be coming."
⚔️ Arsenal and Liverpool in the Race
Arsenal are genuine contenders and are already said to be in advanced talks to sign Gyökeres over the summer. Mikel Arteta is keen to sign a natural No. 9 to push the Gunners into serious title contention next season. (Source – AS)
Liverpool have been monitoring developments as well but may focus elsewhere unless a priority forward leaves.
✅ Conclusion: A Deal to Watch
Viktor Gyökeres is categorically one of the most wanted forwards this summer, and Manchester United are entitled to pursue him. But getting him won't be a cakewalk. Without Champions League football at Old Trafford and with competitors scouting him around, United will have to be quick and decisive in their move to get the signing for one of the best strikers in Europe.
Whether United can make it happen—or whether Gyökeres joins a club already competing in Europe's top tier—will be one of the summer's biggest talking points.
