Manchester United Are Eager To Secure The Signing Of Viktor Gyokeres This Summer
Manchester United are reportedly considering a move for Sporting Lisbon’s forward Viktor Gyokeres when the summer transfer window opens. The 25-year-old joined Sporting from Coventry City last July and has impressed for his Portuguese club this season, scoring 29 goals and providing 11 assists in 32 appearances.
Upon his arrival, Gyokeres signed a five-year contract with Sporting, although there is believed to be a €100 million (£85.5 million) release clause in his contract.
Previously linked with Chelsea, who are still thought to be interested, there is now serious interest from Manchester United, according to reports from Fichajes. The club is reportedly planning to pursue him at the conclusion of the 2023-24 campaign.
The Red Devils are poised to recruit a new striker this summer to provide support for Rasmus Hojlund in the upcoming season, as Anthony Martial is set to depart on a free transfer.
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag disclosed on Friday his intention to secure a new striker during the January transfer window, upon learning that Martial would be unavailable until at least the end of March. However, due to Financial Fair Play regulations, a deal was not feasible.
“When I received the news about Anthony Martial at the beginning of January, I actively pursued the acquisition of another striker because we recognized our vulnerability in that area,” explained the manager.
“Unfortunately, Financial Fair Play restrictions prevented us from executing the transfer. Nevertheless, we devised alternative strategies to address the absence of Rasmus Hojlund and ensure adequate cover. We have options within our squad to manage the situation effectively.”
“So, firstly, finding options for the striker position is particularly challenging, especially at our level. We had two strikers, and while I understand the situation with Martial, who performed admirably for us last season, he also commands a significant salary at the club.
“Bringing in another striker would essentially sideline him. Therefore, all considerations led us to refrain from signing two strikers. Additionally, we have Marcus Rashford, who is capable of excelling in that role. Hence, we already had three strikers available in our squad.”
With Hojlund sidelined due to a muscular injury sustained in training, Rashford is expected to fill the central striker role during his absence.
Gyokeres initially joined English football with Brighton & Hove Albion in 2018, but he struggled to make an impact, managing only one goal in eight appearances for the Seagulls.
However, the forward found success with Coventry City before his move to Sporting Lisbon, scoring 40 goals in 97 appearances for the club across the 2021-22 and 2022-23 seasons, following a loan spell in 2020-21.
