🚨 Manchester United Back Out of Viktor Gyokeres Transfer Deal After Long Pursuit
In a surprising twist to what had been one of the most talked-about striker sagas of the summer, Manchester United have officially withdrawn their interest in signing Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres, despite multiple reports suggesting advanced internal discussions and weeks of scouting activity.
The 26-year-old Swedish forward, who took the Portuguese Primeira Liga by storm with 43 goal contributions (33 goals, 10 assists) in all competitions last season, had been heavily linked to a move to Old Trafford since April. United’s recruitment team, under the guidance of new co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS, had identified Gyokeres as a potential long-term solution to their attacking woes.
However, after deliberation at board level and further analysis by manager Erik ten Hag, the Red Devils have chosen to explore alternative striker options — a decision that brings an abrupt end to what seemed like a fast-developing negotiation.
💰 Release Clause & Financial Considerations
Gyokeres’ €100 million release clause was seen as a major sticking point. While United were reportedly willing to open discussions around a structured payment package that could reduce the initial fee, Sporting stood firm on their valuation.
Sources close to the club say INEOS viewed the deal as “financially excessive” given the club’s other pressing needs in midfield and defence. With Financial Fair Play (FFP) limitations still looming, the board decided that committing such a huge sum to one striker — especially without Premier League experience — would be a risky investment.
🔍 Ten Hag’s Influence and Tactical Shift
Manager Erik ten Hag has reportedly played a key role in halting the move. According to club insiders, the Dutch tactician is keen to build around Rasmus Højlund, who joined from Atalanta last summer and showed flashes of promise during the 2023/24 campaign.
“Ten Hag believes Højlund can explode this season if surrounded by better creative midfielders,” a source told Manchester Evening News. “He’s asked for a right-winger and a No. 10 before they think about another striker.”
That leaves Gyokeres — a physically dominant, versatile striker — without a place in United’s short-term tactical framework.
🔄 Plan B: United’s New Transfer Priorities
With Gyokeres now out of the picture, United are shifting their focus to more cost-effective alternatives. Talks are reportedly underway with Joshua Zirkzee, the Dutch striker currently at Bologna, who has a €40 million release clause and is also attracting attention from AC Milan and Arsenal.
Additionally, Brighton’s Evan Ferguson and Brentford’s Ivan Toney remain on the watchlist, though both come with their own complications — especially in terms of transfer fee and injury history.
Manchester United are also prioritizing midfield reinforcements, with interest in Benfica’s João Neves and Everton’s Amadou Onana gaining momentum.
🇸🇪 What Next for Gyokeres?
Viktor gyokeres, who was said to be open to the move, will now reassess his options. Chelsea, Arsenal, and Atlético Madrid have all been linked in recent weeks, and with Sporting open to selling at the right price, interest is expected to spike again before the end of the summer window.
Sporting coach Rúben Amorim admitted last week: “We want Viktor to stay, but we understand the market. His value is clear — any club who wants him knows the price.”
As it stands, the Swedish striker remains one of the hottest properties in European football, and this won’t be the last twist in his transfer story this summer.
