Manchester United have pulled off a sensational coup, officially signing Sporting CP’s world-class striker Viktor Gyökeres for a reported £68 million on June 26, 2025, with the 26-year-old Swedish star bidding an emotional farewell to his former club.
The transfer, confirmed by United, has sent shockwaves through the football world, with fans and pundits stunned by the Red Devils’ ability to secure one of Europe’s most prolific forwards. Gyökeres’ arrival adds significant firepower to Ruben Amorim’s squad, marking a transformative moment in United’s ongoing rebuild.
Gyökeres, who netted an extraordinary 43 goals and provided 15 assists in 50 appearances for Sporting last season, including a hat-trick against Manchester City in the Champions League, has been hailed as a complete forward. His 23 Liga Portugal goals, 87 dribbles, and 12 headed goals showcase his clinical finishing and physicality, making him an ideal fit for Amorim’s 3-4-3 system.
In a heartfelt statement on social media, Gyökeres thanked Sporting, saying, “Lisbon will always have a piece of my heart. The fans, the club, the city—thank you for everything.” The emotional farewell resonated with Sporting supporters, who flooded replies with gratitude despite their sadness.
The move follows United’s recent signings of Matheus Cunha (£62.5m from Wolves) and Bryan Mbeumo (£60m from Brentford), but Gyökeres represents their marquee addition, with Amorim reportedly viewing him as the “dream replacement” for Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee, who struggled last season.
Sources indicate Gyökeres personally pushed for the transfer, telling United he wanted to join despite interest from Arsenal and Liverpool, who have since cooled their pursuit. Sporting’s readiness to replace him with Almeria’s Luis Javier Suárez facilitated the deal.
United fans are ecstatic, with one supporter posting, “Gyökeres is a game-changer—Amorim’s building a monster!” Pundits, including Gary Lineker, have praised the signing, noting Gyökeres’ “Haaland-like presence” could elevate United’s attack, which lacked goals last season.
However, some question the fit alongside Cunha and Mbeumo, with concerns about squad balance. United’s transfer activity, including talks for Club Brugge’s Ardon Jashari and a goalkeeper to challenge André Onana, suggests Amorim is far from done.
As United prepare for the 2025/26 season, Gyökeres’ arrival signals their intent to challenge for the Premier League and beyond, leaving rivals on notice.
