Manchester United are still very much interested in bringing Viktor Gyokeres to Old Trafford, but the financial challenges surrounding a potential transfer continue to complicate matters. According to Fabrizio Romano, despite the club’s strong admiration for the Swedish striker, making a deal happen isn’t straightforward.
Gyokeres has been a revelation since joining Sporting CP in 2023, thriving under Ruben Amorim, who has since taken over as United’s manager. The striker’s record in Portugal is exceptional, having netted 95 goals and assisted 27 times in just 98 appearances—an astonishing output that has drawn attention across Europe.
Amorim’s tactical system, which relies heavily on a powerful striker capable of stretching defenses and holding up play, was tailor-made for Gyokeres. His success in that role has only highlighted the gap in United’s current attacking lineup. Neither Rasmus Hojlund nor Joshua Zirkzee have quite managed to replicate the same effectiveness in Amorim’s setup.
With United struggling to find consistency in front of goal throughout the season—both under Amorim and previously with Erik ten Hag—it’s easy to see why the Portuguese coach is eager to work with his former forward once again. Florian Plettenberg reports that discussions between United and Gyokeres’ camp have already begun, but there’s no deal yet, as the striker hasn’t given his approval to the move.
Romano adds that Gyokeres’ future is still wide open, with other European clubs, including Arsenal, also in the mix. While Manchester United’s desire to sign him is genuine, their ability to make a serious offer will hinge on how much they can spend this summer. Factors like player sales and the potential revenue from securing Champions League football via the Europa League will play a major role.
The club is also eyeing a more affordable option in Liam Delap from Ipswich Town. With the Tractor Boys relegated, Delap is available for £30 million due to a release clause in his contract. He could become a viable alternative if budget restrictions prevent a move for Gyokeres, though the Swede remains the preferred target if the financial circumstances allow.
Manchester United’s interest in Viktor Gyökeres remains strong, but their pursuit is being constrained by significant financial hurdles. According to Fabrizio Romano, while Ruben Amorim is keen on a reunion with the Swedish forward—whom he coached to great effect at Sporting CP—the complexity of the deal lies in Gyökeres’ hefty release clause, which reportedly sits at **€100 million** (£85 million).
Gyökeres’ staggering output—**95 goals and 27 assists in just 98 games** for Sporting—makes him a prime candidate to fill the attacking void at United. Amorim’s tactical blueprint, reliant on a dynamic, physically dominant striker to lead the line and stretch defences, was designed around the Swedish international, and his performances under that system have been unmatched. United’s current options, including **Rasmus Højlund and target Joshua Zirkzee**, have yet to prove they can match that same level of consistency and efficiency.
**Florian Plettenberg** has confirmed that discussions between Manchester United and Gyökeres’ camp are ongoing, but no agreement has been reached. Gyökeres himself is reportedly weighing his options and has not committed to a move, with **Arsenal and other European clubs** also expressing interest.
Adding further complexity to the pursuit is United’s **limited transfer budget**, which is dependent on:
* **Revenue from player sales** (e.g., Sancho, Greenwood, Casemiro)
* **Qualification for the Champions League** (via Europa League win or future domestic standings)
* **Financial Fair Play compliance**
As a contingency, **Liam Delap** from Ipswich Town has emerged as a cost-effective alternative. The 21-year-old striker is available for **£30 million** due to a relegation-triggered release clause and is seen as a promising but lower-risk option.
In short, **Gyökeres remains Amorim’s top target**, but unless United can generate significant funds or negotiate a more favorable deal, they may be forced to pivot toward a more economical solution like Delap.
