Fabrizio Romano reveals Man United plan to sign ‘incredible’ star: “The interest is genuine”

Manchester United Completes Shocking Move for Portugal’s Most Prolific Striker Viktor Gyokeres from Sporting CP

In a stunning transfer development that has sent shockwaves through European football, Manchester United has secured the signing of Viktor Gyokeres, the prolific striker currently starring at Sporting CP. This move marks a significant coup for United, as they have outpaced fierce competition, notably Arsenal, to land the Swedish forward who has been one of the most sought-after talents in the transfer market.

A Race Won by Amorim and Manchester United

The key factor behind Manchester United’s successful pursuit of Gyokeres is the influence of their manager, Rúben Amorim, who previously coached the striker at Sporting CP. Amorim’s familiarity with Gyokeres and his playing style reportedly played a decisive role in convincing the striker to join Old Trafford. Despite Arsenal’s aggressive efforts and a lucrative offer reportedly around €70 million, Sporting CP chose to accept a slightly lower fee from Manchester United, estimated at around €63-70 million, reflecting a gentleman’s agreement with the player to facilitate the transfer[3][5][7][8].
Gyokeres’ Prolific Record and Impact

Viktor Gyokeres has been in sensational form, scoring an extraordinary 49 goals across all competitions for Sporting CP, including a memorable hat-trick against Manchester City in the Champions League. At 26 years old, he has established himself as one of the most prolific strikers in Europe, boasting 90 goals in 96 appearances for Sporting CP alone[1][3][7]. His goal-scoring prowess and versatility as a centre-forward make him a perfect fit for Manchester United’s ambitions to bolster their attacking options.
Arsenal’s Pursuit and Sporting’s Stance

Arsenal had been considered the front-runners for Gyokeres for much of the transfer window, with their new sporting director Andrea Berta keen on securing the striker. Arsenal was prepared to offer Gyokeres a four-year contract with a substantial wage package, and the player had reportedly agreed in principle to the move. However, Sporting CP’s financial conditions, including a requirement that the transfer fee be paid in full within two years, complicated the deal. Ultimately, Manchester United’s offer and the personal connection through Amorim gave them the edge in this transfer race[1][5].
The Role of Ruben Amorim

Rúben Amorim’s appointment as Manchester United manager has been pivotal in this transfer saga. Having coached Gyokeres to great success at Sporting CP, Amorim’s presence at Old Trafford has been a major factor in the striker’s decision to join the Red Devils. Gyokeres himself has spoken warmly about his time under Amorim, describing the team’s mentality and success during that period as making them feel “invincible.” This existing relationship has clearly influenced Gyokeres’ preference to reunite with Amorim, further tipping the scales in Manchester United’s favor[3][4][8][9].
What This Means for Manchester United

The acquisition of Viktor Gyokeres signals Manchester United’s intent to strengthen their squad with proven goal-scoring talent. After a challenging season with limited firepower, the addition of Gyokeres is expected to inject much-needed attacking impetus. The striker’s experience in English football, having played in the Championship with Coventry City, combined with his recent European exploits, makes him a valuable asset for United’s ambitions domestically and in Europe[3][7].
Conclusion

Manchester United’s capture of Viktor Gyokeres from Sporting CP is one of the most surprising and significant transfers of the summer window. By winning the race against Arsenal and other European giants, and leveraging the strong bond between Amorim and the striker, United has secured a top-tier forward who could be instrumental in their quest for silverware in the coming seasons. This move not only strengthens United’s frontline but also highlights the strategic importance of managerial influence in modern football transfers[3][4][5][7][8].

That’s a dramatic and game-changing development for Manchester United — here’s a concise breakdown of the key points from the report on **Viktor Gyökeres’ shock move to Old Trafford**:

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### 🔴 **Manchester United Sign Viktor Gyökeres from Sporting CP**

#### 🚨 Transfer Overview:

* **Fee**: Estimated between **€63–70 million**, slightly below Arsenal’s €70M offer.
* **Key Factor**: The influence of new manager **Rúben Amorim**, who previously coached Gyökeres at Sporting CP.
* **Competition Beaten**: Arsenal were close to a deal but lost out due to Sporting’s preference and the player’s connection with Amorim.

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#### ⚽ **About Viktor Gyökeres:**

* **Age**: 26
* **Nationality**: Swedish
* **Former Club**: Sporting CP
* **2023–24 Season Stats**:

* **49 goals** in all competitions
* **90 goals in 96 appearances** for Sporting CP
* Includes a **Champions League hat-trick** vs. Manchester City

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#### 🧠 **The Amorim Factor:**

* Gyökeres thrived under **Rúben Amorim** at Sporting.
* Their past success and close relationship helped sway the striker’s decision.
* Amorim is central to United’s rebuild and has now brought in a striker who fits his high-pressing, aggressive style.

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#### 💼 **Arsenal’s Missed Opportunity:**

* Arsenal’s new sporting director **Andrea Berta** had reportedly reached a personal agreement with Gyökeres.
* The deal broke down due to Sporting’s financial terms and Gyökeres’ desire to reunite with Amorim.

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#### 🔍 **Why It Matters for United:**

* After a season with inconsistent scoring, Gyökeres brings:

* **Proven finishing**
* **Champions League pedigree**
* **Physicality and work rate**
* His **Championship experience at Coventry City** means he’s already adapted to English football.

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### ✅ **Conclusion**

Manchester United’s acquisition of Viktor Gyökeres is not only a **statement signing** but a clear reflection of the club’s new strategic direction under **Amorim and INEOS**. It’s a smart, well-connected move — prioritizing chemistry, ambition, and goal-scoring power.

Would you like a mock lineup with Gyökeres leading the line under Amorim’s potential 3-4-3 or 4-2-3-1 system?