Viktor Gyokeres Confirms £70m Manchester United Move After Talks with Ruben Amorim at Sporting
Viktor Gyokeres Rejects Manchester United, Arsenal Emerge as Favorites
By Daniel Davis | Updated: 12:59 BST, 14 June 2025
Manchester United’s hopes of signing Sporting Lisbon striker Viktor Gyokeres have collapsed after the Swedish star reportedly ruled out a move to Old Trafford. The decision deals a fresh blow to new boss Ruben Amorim, who sought to reunite with the prolific forward following United’s dismal 15th-place Premier League finish and Europa League final defeat to Tottenham.
Ruben Amorim had hoped to bring Gyokeres to Manchester United.
According to Portuguese outlet Record, Gyokeres’ representatives informed United on Friday that he would not join the club. With no European football on offer next season, the Red Devils faced an uphill battle against rivals Arsenal, who remain in pole position to secure his signature. The Gunners reportedly saw an initial bid rejected but are preparing a renewed offer.
Release Clause Drama and Agent Tensions
Gyokeres, who scored 54 goals in 52 games last season, has a £84m release clause. However, Sporting president Frederico Varandas accused the striker’s agent, Hasan Cetinkaya, of “blackmail” after claims of a promised £60m exit fee. Varandas dismissed the allegations, stating: “Threats and insults don’t work with me. No offer has been received for Viktor—not now or last season.”
Gyokeres’ agent has been criticized for escalating tensions.
The 27-year-old striker sparked speculation by removing all Sporting references from his Instagram, posting cryptically: “There’s a lot of false talk. I’ll speak when the time is right.”
Arsenal’s Advantage and United’s Backup Plans
With Gyokeres prioritizing a Champions League contender, Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta has held talks with Sporting. United, meanwhile, are scrambling for alternatives, including Napoli’s Victor Osimhen, Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo, and Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitike.
Arsenal are preparing a new bid after their first offer was turned down.
Amorim, tasked with reviving United’s fortunes, faces mounting pressure to attract top talent amid the club’s turbulent season. Gyokeres’ snub underscores the challenges ahead as the Red Devils navigate a competitive transfer market without European allure.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing transfer saga.
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