Viktor Gyökeres Declares Intent to “Rescue Manchester United” Amid Struggles, Encourages Move With Ruben Amorim

Viktor Gyökeres has added fuel to the speculation surrounding a potential move to Manchester United by naming Zlatan Ibrahimović and Cristiano Ronaldo as his idols. The Swedish striker has been linked with a move to Old Trafford, and these comments are likely to intensify the rumors, especially following his former manager Ruben Amorim’s recent appointment as United’s head coach.

Since joining Sporting CP from Coventry City, Gyökeres has been in sensational form, scoring 68 goals and providing 19 assists in just 72 appearances. His prolific record has attracted interest from top European clubs, with Manchester United reportedly among the frontrunners. The 26-year-old has a €100m (£83m, $106m) release clause, but reports suggest he could be available for around €70m (£57.8m, $73.7m) next summer.

Manchester United’s interest in Gyökeres is partly driven by their struggles in the striker position. Rasmus Højlund has shown flashes of brilliance but remains inconsistent, while summer signing Joshua Zirkzee has yet to impress. Gyökeres’ proven goal-scoring ability could provide a much-needed boost to United’s attack.

In a recent interview with UEFA, Gyökeres spoke about his admiration for Ibrahimović and Ronaldo, both of whom had successful stints at Manchester United. “The players I looked up to were Zlatan Ibrahimović and Cristiano Ronaldo. It’s about how they performed on the pitch, they went the extra mile, which impressed me. I wanted to do similar things on the pitch,” he said.

While his admiration for United legends adds intrigue, Gyökeres has remained noncommittal about his future. Speaking to Fotboll Skanalen in November, he downplayed the speculation about reuniting with Amorim at United. “He [Amorim] probably has some strikers there already, so we’ll see. No, he hasn’t [asked me to join him]. It’s fun but nothing I attach any importance to because it’s talk and nothing concrete.”

Gyökeres added via Fabrizio Romano: “I want to finish this season at Sporting. I love it here. We will see [about a new club] when the time comes. I want to play, that’s crucial, and there will be other factors.”

Manchester United faces competition for Gyökeres from Paris Saint-Germain and Newcastle United, highlighting his rising stock in European football. The striker’s journey from Championship football with Coventry to becoming one of Europe’s most sought-after forwards has been remarkable.

Elsewhere, Manchester United continues to navigate key decisions in other areas. Amid ongoing left-back issues, with Tyrell Malacia and Luke Shaw plagued by injuries, the club has been linked with AC Milan’s Theo Hernández as an alternative to Bayern Munich’s Alphonso Davies, who is entering the final year of his contract.

Additionally, United recently secured the signing of promising English teenage winger Emmanuel Ziro, beating Arsenal and Chelsea to his signature. This acquisition reflects the club’s commitment to strengthening its future talent pool.

As the summer transfer window approaches, United’s pursuit of Gyökeres and other targets will be closely watched, with Ruben Amorim looking to reshape the squad and address the team’s inconsistencies. Whether Gyökeres follows his former manager to Old Trafford remains a story to watch.