Manchester United’s pursuit of Viktor Gyokeres appears to be slipping away, as reports suggest the Swedish striker prefers a move to a Champions League club.
Despite manager Ruben Amorim’s connection to Gyokeres from their time at Sporting Lisbon, a reunion at Old Trafford seems unlikely.
Gyokeres has been in scintillating form, netting 22 goals in 20 league appearances this season, following a 29-goal campaign that propelled Sporting to the Portuguese league title.
Meanwhile, United continue to struggle for a reliable striker, with Amorim even deploying midfielder Kobbie Mainoo as a false nine in their recent 2-0 defeat to Crystal Palace.
Current forwards Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee have struggled to impress, managing just five league goals combined. Sporting, reportedly open to selling Gyokeres for around €70 million (£58m), may entertain offers, but United are not considered frontrunners.
According to The Athletic, United’s chances are slim due to their uncertain Champions League qualification. Unless they win the Europa League, securing a spot in Europe’s top competition remains doubtful.
Even if they do qualify, more attractive clubs are expected to enter the race for Gyokeres. Additionally, United have concerns over signing a 26-year-old striker, preferring younger options such as 20-year-old full-back Patrick Dorgu, whom they signed in January.
Gyokeres himself has hinted at prioritizing a move to an elite club. Speaking to Marca in December, he acknowledged transfer speculation but remained focused on the season. When asked where he envisions himself at 30, he responded, “Playing for one of the best teams in Europe. That is the objective.”
With Gyokeres looking out of reach, United may shift focus to alternative targets. RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko (21) has emerged as a strong candidate, though Arsenal are also interested. Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap and Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo are other potential options, with United scouts reportedly monitoring both.
Arsenal legend Ian Wright recently urged United to sign Delap, who has impressed with nine goals in his debut Premier League season. “Go and get Delap,” Wright said on Wrighty’s House. “He’s got that hunger and disrespect for everybody. United need a hero, and he’s a hero waiting to happen.”
As the summer window approaches, United face a crucial decision in their search for a goal-scoring solution.