Man United begin talks to sign Viktor Gyokeres, but one major hurdle remains after agent admission

Manchester United have reportedly identified Sporting star striker Viktor Gyokeres as a potential summer recruit to help boost their attacking options.

This season, with 36 goals and 16 assists, Gyokeres has 52 goal contributions in just 43 games in all competitions this campaign.

Joining the Portuguese side from Coventry City last summer, Gyokeres’ performances have drawn the attention of several European giants both in and out of the Premier League.

AC Milan had been keeping tabs on the Sweden international’s performances, but with his impressive form showing no signs of slowing down, it is now believed both United and Liverpool are heavily interested in the attacker.

Those within the Red Devils camp are believed to have agreed on four key positions where signings must be made this summer. This includes United bringing in an additional striker to support Rasmus Hojlund.

According to a report from HITC, not only are United looking to sign Gyokeres, but talks have already taken place internally.

Additionally, United’s hopes have been boosted by Gyokeres, 25, reportedly indicating to those at Sporting that he is ready to leave the club.

The Issue at hand

United’s pursuit of Gyokeres could well mirror that of Darwin Nunez, wherein despite the Red Devils’ interest, a move to Liverpool was inevitable.

This is because Sporting manager Ruben Amorim is emerging as the frontrunner to become the Merseyside club’s next manager, with Sky Bet currently having him as 1/5 odds to succeed Jurgen Klopp.

Amorim and Gyokeres are believed to have a strong working relationship, and the current Sporting boss was a major factor in Gyokeres’ decision to sign for the side.

Speaking to Portuguese outlet Record last week, Gyokeres’ agent Hasan Cetinkaya admitted if Amorim is to leave Sporting then Gyokeres will likely follow.

“Victor will be difficult to keep at Sporting if Ruben Amorim decides to leave the club,” said Cetinkaya

“We had eight offers for Gyökeres last summer, and he joined Sporting precisely because of Amorim.”