Manchester United and Arsenal Battle for Viktor Gyökeres as Transfer Race Intensifies
The transfer race for Sporting CP’s star striker, Viktor Gyökeres, is heating up with Manchester United and Arsenal both pushing hard for his signature.
The Swedish international, who enjoyed a phenomenal season in Portugal, remains one of Europe’s most coveted forwards, and his next move is quickly becoming one of the biggest stories of the summer window.
The 27-year-old had an extraordinary campaign for Sporting, finding the net an astonishing 54 times, including 43 goals in just 50 appearances.
His prolific scoring ability, physical strength, and all-around forward play have made him a prime target for top European clubs, with Manchester United currently among the most serious contenders.
Manchester United’s Ambitious Pursuit
United have long been linked with Gyökeres, and reports now confirm that the club views him as an ideal option to lead their attacking line under new manager Ruben Amorim.
Some early rumors suggested that the player had dismissed the idea of moving to Old Trafford, but these claims have been debunked by reputable journalist Ben Jacobs, who confirms that Gyökeres remains open to the move.
In fact, he is reportedly excited about the possibility of playing for one of the world’s most prestigious clubs.
Despite Gyökeres’ interest, Manchester United will still face significant financial hurdles.
Sporting CP have made it clear that they will only entertain offers close to the striker’s €70 million release clause.
Negotiations may require United to meet that valuation directly or structure a complex deal involving staggered payments or even the inclusion of other players to offset the cost.
From a tactical perspective, Gyökeres would be a perfect fit for Amorim’s system at United.
Having already worked together at Sporting, Amorim knows how to maximize the striker’s strengths.
In his preferred 3-4-3 formation, Gyökeres thrives on open spaces, physical battles with defenders, and quick link-up play — all qualities United’s current forward line has been lacking.
His pace, strength, and ability to convert chances from a variety of positions make him an appealing option to immediately boost United’s attacking output.
Arsenal’s Quiet but Strong Interest
Meanwhile, Arsenal are quietly monitoring Gyökeres as they explore options to strengthen their center-forward position.
Despite having Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz at their disposal, Mikel Arteta reportedly remains open to adding a more consistent goal-scorer.
The lure of Champions League football and a stable, competitive team could make Arsenal an attractive destination for Gyökeres.
However, Arsenal may ultimately prioritize a different kind of striker.
Arteta is believed to favor forwards who are more technical, comfortable operating in tight spaces, and who can drop into midfield to link play — traits that could push him toward other targets such as Benjamin Šeško.
Manchester United’s Broader Search for a Striker
United’s pursuit of Gyökeres is part of a wider effort to find a new focal point in attack.
The club has also been linked with Victor Osimhen of Napoli and Joshua Zirkzee of Bologna.
What United are clearly seeking is a striker who is ready to deliver immediately — a physically imposing frontman who can consistently score 20 or more goals per season.
In that respect, Gyökeres ticks nearly every box. Not only is he in peak form, but he also has the advantage of having already flourished under Amorim’s guidance.
This familiarity between player and manager could ease his transition and maximize his immediate impact.
The Big Question
Ultimately, everything may come down to how far United are willing to go financially.
If the club’s board is prepared to meet Sporting’s demands or at least structure a competitive offer, and if Amorim pushes for his former player’s arrival, Gyökeres could very well become United’s marquee signing. The board now faces two critical decisions:
➡️ Will they prioritize Gyökeres over other options like Osimhen and Zirkzee?
➡️ And will they back Amorim’s vision with the necessary financial commitment to get the deal done?
The next few weeks could be decisive in determining where one of Europe’s hottest strikers will be playing next season.
