As Manchester United prepare for a pivotal summer transfer window, the striker position remains a glaring priority. Rasmus Højlund’s inconsistent form and Joshua Zirkzee’s struggles have left Ruben Amorim’s side in dire need of a reliable goal-scorer. One name that has dominated the rumour mill is Viktor Gyökeres, the Swedish talisman who has been tearing up the Primeira Liga under Amorim at Sporting Lisbon. However, despite the tantalising prospect of a reunion, reports suggest Gyökeres’ arrival at Old Trafford is far from guaranteed.
Gyökeres’ Stellar Season: A Record-Breaking Campaign
Gyökeres has been nothing short of sensational this season. In 35 appearances across all competitions, the 26-year-old has netted an astonishing 34 goals and provided seven assists. His blend of physicality, technical ability, and clinical finishing has made him one of Europe’s most sought-after forwards. Unsurprisingly, his exploits have caught the attention of top clubs, including Manchester United, where his former manager Ruben Amorim now sits in the dugout.
The connection between player and coach is undeniable. Amorim’s tactical system at Sporting has been built around Gyökeres’ strengths, allowing him to thrive as the focal point of the attack. For United fans, the prospect of replicating this partnership at Old Trafford is a dream scenario. However, as The Athletic reports, this dream may remain just that—a dream.
The Champions League Factor: A Major Hurdle
One of the key reasons Gyökeres is unlikely to join United is his ambition to play in the Champions League. While the Red Devils could secure a spot in Europe’s elite competition by winning the Europa League, their current Premier League position (13th) makes this a long shot. Gyökeres, who turns 27 in June, is at a stage in his career where he wants to compete at the highest level, and other suitors are better positioned to offer him that opportunity.
“It is considered unlikely that Gyökeres follows Amorim to Old Trafford,” writes Laurie Whitwell. “The Swedish international wants to join a Champions League team, and while that is possible for United through winning the Europa League, other more appealing propositions are expected to enter the bidding.”
United’s Transfer Strategy: Youth Over Experience
Even if Gyökeres were open to a move, United’s transfer strategy under INEOS may scupper any deal. The club is prioritising younger signings with resale value, and Gyökeres’ age doesn’t align with this approach. “United would be reluctant to commit that type of money to a player who will turn 27 in June,” Whitwell notes.
Instead, the Red Devils are reportedly eyeing a mix of emerging talents and established stars. Benjamin Šeško, Liam Delap, and Bryan Mbeumo are among the names on their shortlist, each offering a different profile to complement Amorim’s system.
The Contenders: Šeško, Delap, and Mbeumo
Benjamin Šeško: The Slovenian striker has been a long-term target for United, with the club making multiple unsuccessful attempts to sign him. However, Arsenal’s interest could complicate matters, as Mikel Arteta’s side are also keen on the RB Leipzig forward.
Liam Delap: The Ipswich Town striker has impressed in the Premier League this season, scoring nine goals and providing two assists in 23 matches. His aggressive running and pace make him an appealing option, especially if Ipswich are relegated and his price drops. Chelsea are also monitoring the 22-year-old.
Bryan Mbeumo: The Brentford forward has been one of the standout performers in the Premier League, netting 14 goals in 24 games. United have already scouted the Cameroonian, but Brentford’s insistence on a club-record fee could prove a stumbling block.
Free Agents and Big Names: Vardy, Calvert-Lewin, and Kane
United’s precarious financial situation, with the club dangerously close to breaching Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR), has led to interest in free agents. Jamie Vardy and Dominic Calvert-Lewin, both set to be out of contract in the summer, are tempting options. However, their ages (38 and 27, respectively) make them unlikely fits for INEOS’ youth-centric approach.
Harry Kane, meanwhile, remains a pipe dream. Despite reports of a release clause in his Bayern Munich contract, the England captain is reportedly happy in Bavaria and focused on winning trophies.
The Chido Obi Factor: A Future Star in the Making?
While United scour the market for a new striker, one name continues to excite fans: Chido Obi. The 17-year-old academy star has been in scintillating form for the U18s, scoring 12 goals in 12 games, including a hat-trick in the FA Youth Cup against Chelsea.
However, as Whitwell points out, Obi is still a work in progress. “He has trained with the first team on a couple of occasions under Amorim, usually during recovery days, but he is 17 and regarded as having areas of his game to improve before joining the senior squad more regularly.”
The Road Ahead: A Defining Summer
As United prepare for Sunday’s clash against Tottenham, the focus is firmly on the future. Amorim’s rebuild hinges on smart recruitment, and the striker position is at the heart of that plan. While Gyökeres may be the dream signing, the reality is that United are more likely to pursue younger, more affordable options.
Whether it’s Šeško, Delap, Mbeumo, or another target, the club must strike the right balance between ambition and pragmatism. For now, the search continues, and the pressure is on INEOS to deliver a forward who can reignite United’s faltering attack.
Quotes sourced from Laurie Whitwell’s report in The Athletic. Statistics via Opta.
