Manchester United are preparing to bring in a new striker this summer, but a reunion between Ruben Amorim and Viktor Gyökeres now appears increasingly unlikely — despite Sporting Lisbon granting the prolific Swede permission to leave.
As United continue to grapple with inconsistency in front of goal, the club is expected to bolster its attacking options ahead of the new campaign. However, the potential arrival of Gyökeres — long linked with a move to Old Trafford — may now be off the cards due to rising competition and Champions League ambitions.
Inconsistent Attack Leaves United Searching for Firepower
United’s lack of cutting edge in attack has been a persistent issue throughout the current Premier League season, contributing to their underwhelming position in the table. Although summer signing Joshua Zirkzee has caught the eye in patches, he and Rasmus Højlund have yet to provide the consistent goalscoring returns required at the highest level.
The Red Devils have held long-standing interest in Gyökeres, a striker who has thrived under Amorim’s guidance in Portugal and has quickly risen to become one of Europe’s most sought-after forwards.
Exit Agreement in Place — But Not for Everyone
According to reports, Sporting Lisbon and Gyökeres have struck a gentleman’s agreement allowing the 25-year-old to depart in the upcoming transfer window for a fee between €60 million and €70 million (£50.2m–£58.5m) — a figure well below his official release clause.
While Premier League clubs have been made aware of the agreement, Manchester United are believed not to be among them. Portuguese outlet A Bola has previously reported that Gyökeres is keen to join a side competing in the Champions League, a requirement United are currently unable to meet unless they win the Europa League.
This development places other Champions League-bound clubs in pole position, leaving Amorim — should he move to United — without one of his favoured attacking options.
United’s Alternatives and Amorim’s Frustration
Missing out on Gyökeres would be a significant setback for Amorim, who was also reportedly interested in bringing Geovany Quenda to United. However, the promising 17-year-old winger has now committed to Chelsea, further narrowing United’s recruitment options.
Despite these blows, United are already exploring alternative striker targets. One name firmly on the radar is Jean-Philippe Mateta of Crystal Palace. The French forward, who has netted 15 goals in all competitions this season, is valued at around £40 million by the Eagles.
Discussions are understood to have begun regarding a potential deal, with Mateta viewed as a physically dominant No.9 with the intelligence and presence to lead the line under Amorim’s system — should the Sporting boss take the helm at Old Trafford this summer.
