🚨 JUST IN ❗❗❗ Manchester United Walk Away from Viktor Gyokeres Deal Manchester United have officially ended their pursuit of Sporting CP’s high-flying striker Viktor Gyokeres, shutting down a move that had been the subject of major buzz in recent weeks. 🇸🇪 The Premier League giants have chosen to step back from the deal and will now turn their attention to other striker options as they look to revamp their attacking lineup before the new campaign kicks off.

Manchester United have officially stepped away from the chase for Sporting CP’s star striker, Viktor Gyokeres, marking a dramatic end to a transfer saga that had captured headlines all summer. After weeks of heavy speculation, constant scouting, and widespread reporting on progress behind the scenes, the Red Devils have opted to pull the plug on the deal, leaving many fans stunned at the abrupt turn of events.

 

Gyokeres, the 26-year-old Swedish forward, lit up the Portuguese league last season, racking up 43 goal involvements — a jaw-dropping blend of 33 goals and 10 assists. Since April, his name had been hot on the lips of United insiders and fans alike, with many seeing him as the man to lead the line at Old Trafford. But in spite of that hype, United’s top brass, including new stakeholders INEOS and co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, ultimately decided to explore other options.

 

Behind closed doors, this decision wasn’t made lightly. United’s technical team, led by manager Erik ten Hag, reportedly weighed Gyokeres’ qualities against the club’s evolving tactical needs. In the end, the towering striker didn’t quite fit the vision Ten Hag had in mind — especially as the manager seems more invested in nurturing Rasmus Højlund, last summer’s signing from Atalanta, who’s yet to fully hit his stride.

 

One of the biggest roadblocks in the Gyokeres deal was the financial commitment. Sporting’s €100 million release clause was non-negotiable, and while United had considered a staggered payment strategy, the Lisbon side refused to budge. With Financial Fair Play constraints pressing down, and with several gaps still glaring in midfield and defense, United’s leadership balked at spending that kind of money on a single forward — particularly one without Premier League experience.

 

Erik ten Hag’s stance was another game-changer. Sources say he’s determined to double down on Højlund’s potential rather than bring in a big-money striker who might shift the balance. Instead, he’s pushing for the club to invest in creative players — specifically a playmaker and a right-winger — who can better supply the chances needed for the young Dane to flourish. In this new game plan, there was simply no room for a high-profile, ball-dominant number nine.

 

With Gyokeres off the board, United have turned their gaze elsewhere. Joshua Zirkzee of Bologna is reportedly now in their sights. The Dutch striker, available for a much more modest €40 million, has impressed scouts and is also being courted by AC Milan and Arsenal. Other names floating around include Ivan Toney and Evan Ferguson, though both raise concerns due to injury records or potential price inflation.

 

Meanwhile, United aren’t putting all their eggs in the striker basket. There’s an increasing sense of urgency around reinforcing the midfield, with João Neves of Benfica and Everton’s Amadou Onana among their top targets. The club seems determined to balance its spending across the pitch, building a more complete and durable squad for the upcoming season.

 

As for Gyokeres, his journey doesn’t end here. Though disappointed, the striker is reportedly open to other opportunities, and with interest mounting from Chelsea, Arsenal, and Atlético Madrid, he likely won’t be without suitors for long. Sporting have made it clear they’ll sell for the right price — and in a market where proven goal-scorers are gold dust, Gyokeres’ name will keep ringing out until deadline day.