The summer transfer window of 2025 has been abuzz with speculation surrounding Sporting CP’s prolific striker Viktor Gyökeres, with Manchester United consistently linked as a prime destination for the Swedish star. As manager Ruben Amorim seeks to bolster United’s attacking options following a disappointing 2024/25 Premier League campaign, Gyökeres’ name has been at the forefront of transfer rumours.
A Prolific Talent with a Proven Track Record
Viktor Gyökeres has emerged as one of Europe’s most sought-after strikers since joining Sporting CP from Coventry City in July 2023 for a modest €20 million. The 27-year-old has been nothing short of sensational in Portugal, amassing an astonishing 97 goals in 102 appearances for the Primeira Liga champions. In the 2024/25 season alone, he scored 54 goals in 52 matches across all competitions, helping Sporting secure the league title and the Taça de Portugal. His blend of physicality, clinical finishing, and versatility has made him a prime target for top clubs, including Manchester United, where Amorim previously coached him during their time together at Sporting.
Amorim’s familiarity with Gyökeres has fueled speculation of a reunion at Old Trafford. United’s lackluster goalscoring output last season—their worst in 35 years—has underscored the need for a reliable No. 9. With current forwards Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee struggling for form, Gyökeres’ proven track record makes him an ideal candidate to lead United’s attack.
The Transfer Saga: Agreements, Disputes, and Rejections
The potential transfer has been anything but straightforward. Early reports suggested that Gyökeres had a “gentleman’s agreement” with Sporting CP, allowing him to leave for around €60-70 million (£50-59 million), significantly below his €100 million (£84 million) release clause. His agent, Hasan Çetinkaya, claimed to have evidence of this agreement, including voice notes from former Sporting director Hugo Viana, supporting a lower transfer fee. However, Sporting president Frederico Varandas has vehemently denied these claims, insisting no such agreement exists and that the club would demand a fee closer to €80 million. This dispute has led to tensions, with Gyökeres reportedly feeling “disrespected” and even threatening to go on strike to force a move.
In mid-June, Portuguese outlet Record reported that Gyökeres had rejected a move to Manchester United, with his representatives informing the club that he was no longer considering Old Trafford as an option. The reasons cited included United’s lack of Champions League football for the 2025/26 season and financial constraints that could limit their ability to meet Sporting’s demands. Instead, Gyökeres reportedly favored a move to Arsenal, who were seen as a more attractive destination due to their title-contending status and Champions League participation.
However, the narrative shifted later in June. On June 25, TEAMtalk reported that Gyökeres had a change of heart and expressed a desire to join Manchester United, reigniting hope among fans. Fabrizio Romano clarified that Gyökeres had not definitively rejected any club, keeping the door open for United, Arsenal, and other suitors.
