Manchester United remain strongly interested in signing Viktor Gyökeres, though financial hurdles continue to complicate any potential move. The club’s admiration for the Swedish striker is evident, but the high cost associated with bringing him to Old Trafford presents a significant challenge. According to Fabrizio Romano, United’s pursuit of Gyökeres is real, but securing a deal is far from simple due to the hefty financial implications.
Gyökeres has enjoyed a meteoric rise since his transfer to Sporting CP in 2023. Under the guidance of Ruben Amorim—who has now taken the managerial reins at Manchester United—the striker has delivered extraordinary performances. In just 98 appearances, Gyökeres has scored an astonishing 95 goals and provided 27 assists, marking him as one of the most prolific forwards in European football. His exceptional form has naturally caught the eye of several top clubs across the continent.
Amorim’s tactical system at Sporting was built around a strong, mobile forward capable of stretching opposition defences and serving as a physical presence up front—qualities that Gyökeres embodies perfectly. His remarkable success in this role has only served to highlight the deficiencies in United’s current forward options. Neither Rasmus Højlund nor Joshua Zirkzee, a summer transfer target, has demonstrated the same level of effectiveness in leading the line within Amorim’s preferred setup.
Throughout the season, United have struggled to find attacking consistency, a problem that persisted under both Erik ten Hag and now Amorim. This lack of firepower has made Amorim eager for a reunion with Gyökeres, whom he knows can thrive in his tactical framework. Discussions between Manchester United and the striker’s representatives have reportedly begun, as confirmed by journalist Florian Plettenberg. However, an agreement has yet to be reached, and Gyökeres is said to be considering his options carefully. With interest from other major European clubs, including Arsenal, the Swede has yet to commit to any move.
A major obstacle to the transfer is Gyökeres’ release clause, which is reported to be around **€100 million** (£85 million). Unless Manchester United can raise sufficient funds—potentially through player sales or by qualifying for the Champions League via the Europa League—the club may struggle to meet that valuation.
In the event that a deal for Gyökeres proves financially unfeasible, United are also monitoring Liam Delap from Ipswich Town. Following Ipswich’s relegation, Delap is available for a more affordable **£30 million** due to a release clause, making him a viable alternative. Nevertheless, Gyökeres remains the top choice—if budget constraints can be navigated.
