Fabrizio Romano: Man Utd’s Gyokeres pursuit depends on European qualification | OneFootball

Viktor Gyokeres to Manchester United: Transfer Hope or Financial Hurdle?

Manchester United’s search for a striker could lead them to Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres, with Fabrizio Romano shedding light on a potential cut-price transfer. The Swedish forward’s prolific form in Portugal has made him one of the most sought-after strikers in Europe, but financial constraints and the club’s uncertain European status could complicate matters.

Gyokeres: A Proven Goal Machine

Since moving from Coventry City to Sporting CP in 2023, Gyokeres has been in devastating form. The Swedish international has recorded a staggering 80 goals and 24 assists in just 89 appearances, a tally that speaks volumes of his finishing ability and attacking intelligence.

His best performances came under current United boss Ruben Amorim, which naturally fuels speculation of a potential reunion at Old Trafford. However, while United’s need for a proven goalscorer is clear, their financial situation is less so.

The Transfer Fee: Lower Than Expected?

Romano has confirmed that despite Gyokeres’ official release clause being set at €100m (£83.9m), Sporting have a gentleman’s agreement in place allowing the player to leave for a more reasonable sum.

“For Viktor Gyokeres you should not follow the release clause anymore,” Romano revealed.

“The release clause is €100m, that’s the official contract, but there is a pact between the player, agents and Sporting directly with the president to let Viktor Gyokeres leave in the summer for a different transfer fee.”

The fee is expected to be around €65m-€75m (£54.5m-£62.9m), depending on add-ons and payment structures. While this brings United into the conversation, it doesn’t necessarily mean they will have the financial capability to complete the deal.

United’s Financial and European Football Situation

Romano emphasised that Manchester United’s summer budget remains uncertain, particularly due to their struggles in the Premier League.

“We had many reports about Manchester United and the appreciation of Ruben Amorim for Viktor Gyokeres is obviously there,” Romano continued.

“He loves Gyokeres and Gyokeres loves Amorim, for sure. But for Man Utd we say it for [Victor] Osimhen and for Gyokeres too – it depends on the budget, how much they can invest, how much they can spend and what happens with European football.”

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With United sitting in 14th place and all but out of the race for European qualification through the league, winning the Europa League could be their only route back to the Champions League. This, in turn, could dictate their spending power and ability to lure top-tier targets such as Gyokeres.

Their upcoming second leg against Real Sociedad in the Europa League Round of 16 will be pivotal. Having secured a 1-1 draw in the first leg, advancing to the quarter-finals could boost their hopes of securing elite European football next season.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Manchester United fan’s perspective, this update from Fabrizio Romano is both exciting and frustrating. Gyokeres is exactly the kind of striker United need—fast, powerful, and clinical—but the uncertainty around the club’s finances could make this another ‘nearly’ signing.

Many supporters would argue that United have been slow to act in the market for years, missing out on key targets due to indecision and financial mismanagement. If United fail to qualify for the Champions League, attracting Gyokeres could become nearly impossible, especially with “many clubs around Europe” monitoring his situation, as Romano put it.

Moreover, while Gyokeres’ admiration for Amorim could be a deciding factor, it may not be enough if United can’t compete financially. The club’s new era under Sir Jim Ratcliffe is meant to signal a shift towards smarter recruitment, but until concrete moves are made, fans will remain sceptical.

For now, United supporters can only hope the club doesn’t repeat past mistakes and allows another elite talent to slip away to a European rival.