Manchester United Poised to Hijack Viktor Gyokeres Signing with €40m Discount

Manchester United are preparing a bid to intercept Arsenal’s move for Sporting Lisbon’s prolific striker Viktor Gyokeres, capitalizing on a stalled transfer that could see the Red Devils secure the 27-year-old Swede for a discounted €60 million (£51m / $68m), nearly €40 million below Sporting’s initial €100 million valuation. The bold move comes as United aim to bolster their attack under manager Ruben Amorim, who seeks a proven No. 9 to complement recent signings.

Details of the Potential Hijack
Arsenal’s negotiations with Sporting Lisbon for Gyokeres, who scored 43 goals and provided 15 assists in 50 appearances last season, hit a snag over payment terms despite a verbal agreement for €55 million plus €8.6 million in add-ons. Gyokeres, desperate for a Premier League move, has reportedly threatened to strike and skipped pre-season training, souring relations with Sporting. United, sensing an opportunity, are close to finalizing a €60 million-plus deal, undercutting Arsenal’s offer and Sporting’s original demands due to the player’s insistence on leaving.

Why United Are Targeting Gyokeres
United’s attacking output last season was lackluster, with only 44 Premier League goals, and Amorim prioritizes a reliable striker to replace Rasmus Højlund as the focal point. Gyokeres, a former Coventry City star, fits the bill with his physicality, finishing, and versatility in Amorim’s system. The club’s recent signings—Matheus Cunha (£62.5m from Wolves) and Bryan Mbeumo (£65m from Brentford)—address wing and attacking midfield roles, but Gyokeres would provide a true centre-forward presence. United’s failed bids for other strikers, including Hugo Ekitiké (who joined Liverpool for £79m) and Benjamin Šeško (set for Newcastle), have intensified their focus on Gyokeres.

Challenges and Competition
Arsenal remain in the race, with sporting director Andrea Berta pushing to resolve payment disputes, but United’s late bid, backed by director of football Jason Wilcox, leverages Gyokeres’ childhood support for the club. Sporting’s willingness to lower their price stems from Gyokeres’ contract disputes, but United must act swiftly before Arsenal or other suitors like Chelsea, who previously showed interest, re-enter. The transfer window closes on September 1, adding urgency.

Implications
Securing Gyokeres at a €40 million discount would be a coup for United, who have already spent £133.5 million this summer. His 1.16 goal contributions per match could transform their attack, especially after Marcus Rashford’s loan to Barcelona and Jadon Sancho’s likely exit. However, integrating another forward risks squad imbalance, and Gyokeres’ adaptation to the Premier League’s intensity remains a question after his Serie A stint.

Developing Story
United’s bid is expected within days, with talks advancing rapidly. The outcome hinges on whether Arsenal can salvage their deal or if United’s financial muscle and Gyokeres’ preference seal the transfer. Note: Transfer details are fluid; final agreements and valuations may shift.