Manchester United Completes Shocking Move for Portugal’s Most Prolific Striker Viktor Gyokeres from Sporting CP
In a dramatic twist to the summer transfer window, Manchester United have pulled off a major signing by landing Viktor Gyokeres, the high-flying Swedish striker from Sporting CP. The deal has turned heads across Europe, especially as United edged out top rivals like Arsenal to secure one of the most in-demand forwards currently on the market.
Central to this successful swoop was United’s manager, Rúben Amorim, who played a crucial role in bringing Gyokeres to Old Trafford. Amorim previously coached the striker during their time together at Sporting CP, and it’s believed that this past working relationship heavily influenced the player’s decision. Even though Arsenal tabled a tempting offer believed to be in the region of €70 million, Sporting CP opted to honor a previous understanding with Gyokeres, accepting United’s slightly lower bid estimated at €63-70 million to facilitate his move.
Gyokeres has enjoyed a sensational spell at Sporting CP, where his scoring record has been nothing short of extraordinary. The 26-year-old netted a staggering 49 goals in all competitions, including a standout hat-trick against Manchester City in the Champions League. With 90 goals in just 96 matches for the Portuguese side, his clinical finishing and adaptability have made him one of Europe’s deadliest strikers. These qualities perfectly align with Manchester United’s aim to reinforce their attacking lineup.
Arsenal, for much of the transfer window, had looked poised to sign the Swedish international. Their new sporting director Andrea Berta had identified Gyokeres as a key target and the club reportedly had a four-year contract and a generous salary package on the table. While the player was believed to be open to the move, negotiations hit a wall due to Sporting CP’s insistence that the entire fee be paid within two years. This financial stipulation, coupled with Gyokeres’ trust in Amorim, helped swing the deal United’s way.
Amorim’s recent appointment as Manchester United manager has already begun to reshape the club’s transfer direction. Gyokeres has spoken fondly of his time playing under Amorim, often describing the squad’s mindset as “invincible” during that period. This strong personal and professional connection clearly played a pivotal role in his choice to reunite with the Portuguese tactician in Manchester.
The signing of Gyokeres sends a clear message about Manchester United’s intentions for the upcoming season. After a difficult campaign that exposed their lack of firepower up front, the addition of a striker with proven scoring pedigree in both domestic and European football is a significant step forward. With prior experience in England during his time at Coventry City and his recent success in Portugal, Gyokeres looks well-equipped to hit the ground running and make an immediate impact.
Manchester United’s acquisition of Viktor Gyokeres stands out as one of the most strategic and impactful transfers of the summer. Beating out fierce competition, and leveraging Amorim’s influence, the club has brought in a top-class forward whose presence could be a game-changer in their pursuit of glory both in England and on the continental stage.
