The situation between Viktor Gyökeres and Sporting CP has taken a dramatic turn, unexpectedly placing Manchester United in a prime position to pursue the Swedish striker — a move that once seemed unlikely.
What began as a relatively smooth path toward a summer exit has now escalated into a full-blown conflict between player and club. At the core of the dispute is a broken promise.
According to *Record* (Portugal), Gyökeres and Sporting had a verbal agreement allowing him to leave this summer for €60 million, plus €10 million in performance bonuses.
However, Sporting president Frederico Varandas has now reportedly raised the price to a flat €80 million.
Gyökeres is said to be furious over the shift, seeing it as a betrayal of their prior understanding.
So frustrated is the 27-year-old that he’s reportedly prepared to cut short his holiday in Sweden to go public if Sporting doesn’t resolve the matter quickly.
While Sporting has yet to make an official statement, Varandas is expected to speak soon — potentially providing insight into how the club plans to address the growing fallout.
Despite receiving a massive contract offer from Al-Hilal, reportedly worth £570,000 a week, Gyökeres remains intent on continuing his career in Europe. Juventus have shown interest but face financial constraints, and Arsenal — previously linked — appear to be pivoting toward RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Šeško.
This development could open the door for Manchester United. Crucially, new manager Rúben Amorim previously coached Gyökeres at Sporting and played a key role in his breakout season. Their strong relationship could be a deciding factor in convincing the striker to reunite at Old Trafford.
From a footballing standpoint, Gyökeres fits the mold of what United desperately need — a powerful, mobile forward capable of pressing and scoring consistently. His 2023–24 campaign was remarkable, with 43 goals and 15 assists across all competitions.
Timing is critical. With question marks surrounding the futures of Mason Greenwood, Jadon Sancho, and Anthony Martial — and United exploring options like Joshua Zirkzee and Victor Osimhen — landing Gyökeres would bring clarity and attacking stability.
Financially, United may still have negotiating room. Sporting might be pressured to accept a lower base fee, with performance incentives or player swaps potentially helping bridge the gap.
In the coming days, key events will determine how this transfer saga unfolds: Varandas’ public stance, United’s outgoing transfers, and whether Amorim pushes internally for the move.
In short, Manchester United have the motive, the means, and the managerial connection to make this happen. But they’ll need to act swiftly — before other suitors re-enter the race.
