Viktor Gyökeres: Is Man United Interested In Him?

Manchester United has a massive summer ahead. After a disappointing 2024-25 campaign that saw the club miss out on Champions League qualification, incoming Manager Ruben Amorim is expected to shake things up. At the top of his priority list? A striker who can do more than finish, someone who can lead the line, press, link up, and create chaos.

Viktor Gyökeres, the Swedish forward who has taken the Portuguese league and Europe by storm this season, is now firmly on United’s radar. The question is no longer “Is he good enough?” It’s whether the Red Devils can convince him that Old Trafford is the right next step.

Why Amorim Wants Gyökeres So Badly

If there’s one person who knows how to unlock Viktor Gyökeres, it’s Ruben Amorim. The Portuguese played a big role in what Gyokeres is doing in world football today. The 26-year-old striker had an absurd 2024-25 season with 54 goals and 14 assists across all competitions, including memorable moments in the Champions League that turned him into a household name.

Amorim’s tactical setup played directly into Gyökeres’s strengths. The Swede thrived as a lone forward in a high-pressing, possession-based system, and his movement, strength, and composure in front of the goal made him a nightmare for defenders. Now that Amorim is tasked with turning around Manchester United, the logic is simple. Bring in someone he already trusts. Gyökeres, above all, fits that bill. According to reports from Fabrizio Romano and TalkSport, Amorim has already “greenlit” a push for Gyökeres this summer, depending on how sales shape up.

The Arrival Of Cunha & Mbeumo Talks

But here’s what makes the potential Gyökeres deal exciting. He might not be alone up front for the Red Devils. United has already wrapped up a deal with Brazilian playmaker Matheus Cunha from Wolves. And while Cunha may not be a pure No. 10, his ability to drift between the lines, carry the ball, and link play makes him a perfect supporting cast member for someone like Gyökeres.

Even more interesting are the ongoing talks with Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo. The Cameroon international had a quiet elite season, especially when Ivan Toney switched to the Saudi Pro League and Brentford needed someone to step up. Mbeumo brings pace, decision-making, off-the-ball work rate, and intelligence. The kind of player who can stretch defenses and create space for a central striker like Gyökeres to thrive.

If United can line up with Gyökeres flanked by Mbeumo and Cunha just behind them in the 3-4-3 system Amorim inherits, the contrast to last season’s lifeless, disjointed attack would be day and night. The Red Devils struggled for long stretches last year to create chances, relying far too heavily on moments of individual brilliance from Bruno Fernandes or Amad Diallo. Gyökeres brings not just goals but the ability to elevate those around him. With Cunha and Mbeumo in the mix, it’s a full-scale attacking transformation.

The Money and the Competition

Sporting reportedly asks for around €80 million ($86 million) for Gyökeres. However, there’s a belief that a deal in the €65–75 million range is possible due to a gentleman’s agreement last summer. That price tag would put him among the most expensive signings in United history, a serious investment for a club already under financial scrutiny due to FFP constraints.

United’s ownership group, led by INEOS and Sir Jim Ratcliffe, has insisted on smarter spending. That means exits are necessary. Jadon Sancho, Antony, Marcus Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho, and even Rasmus Hojlund are on the chopping block. The Red Devils need to generate cash to buy Gyökeres and complete a full squad overhaul.

Competition plays a big role, as Arsenal, Chelsea, and even PSG have all been linked to Gyökeres over the last few months. The Gunners are particularly keen, with Manager Mikel Arteta looking for a striker who looks like the missing piece of a title-winning team. The one edge United might have? Amorim. If there’s one coach who can sell a vision to Gyökeres, even without Champions League football, it is the man who already helped him reach world-class form.

The Player’s Perspective

Gyökeres has stayed mostly tight-lipped about his future. In April, he was asked directly about a potential reunion with Amorim at United, and he played it cool. “I’m here, and I really like being here,” he said. It’s not something I think about. I’m enjoying it here.” But behind the scenes, those close to the player believe he’s open to a Premier League move if the right project is presented.

Gyökeres isn’t just looking for a payday. He’s 26, in his prime, and wants to win trophies. Amorim’s structured approach and potential co-stars like Cunha, Mbeumo, and Bruno Fernandes could make the Red Devils competitive faster than most expect.

Final Thoughts

After a season full of underachievement, disappointment, and bland football, United fans crave identity. Ruben Amorim’s arrival signals a shift toward modern tactics, dynamic pressing, and proactive football. But that philosophy is toothless without the proper striker leading the line.

Viktor Gyökeres may be the answer. He’s not just a goal machine. He is a connector, a fighter, and a player with the hunger to make a difference. Pair him with Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo, and suddenly United looks like a team with rhythm and fire again.