Manchester United could miss out on Viktor Gyökeres this summer, as the striker is pushing for a move to a club that can offer him Champions League football.
The 26-year-old Sweden star has been heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford for months and is familiar with United manager Ruben Amorim, who worked with him closely at Sporting Lisbon before moving to the Premier League.
United have struggled for goals this season, with Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee disappointing. However, a summer move for Gyökeres is uncertain.
According to The Sun, Gyökeres remains United's top striker target, but he wants to play in the Champions League, which could complicate the move. United are currently 14th in the Premier League, making a top-four finish unlikely.
The club's only potential route to the Champions League is by winning the Europa League, which is challenging. Although they have reached the knockout stage, winning the tournament will be difficult.
While United's hopes of signing Gyökeres are uncertain, he is expected to leave Sporting Lisbon this summer. His impressive form, with 37 goals in 39 games, will likely attract interest from top clubs.
Crystal Palace's Jean-Philippe Mateta is another player United have considered. The Frenchman has attributes that would make him a good fit for the lone frontman role in Amorim's preferred 3-4-3 formation.
Other strikers linked with United include RB Leipzig's Benjamin Sesko, who Arsenal are expected to pursue in the summer, and Ipswich Town's Liam Delap, who has impressed in the Premier League with 10 goals in 26 appearances.
Related news
Manchester United Left Frustrated After Missed Opportunities in Real Sociedad Draw
Manchester United drew 1-1 with Real Sociedad in the Europa League last-16 first leg. Joshua Zirkzee scored for United, but Mikel Oyarzabal equalized with a penalty after a handball by Bruno Fernandes.
United had several chances to take control of the tie but were frustrated by missed opportunities. One notable incident involved Diogo Dalot failing to cross the ball to Rasmus Hojlund, who was open in the penalty area. Instead, Dalot cut inside, and the chance was lost.
Former United player Paul Scholes criticized Dalot's decision, calling it "criminal" and stating that it was a basic mistake for a right-back. United manager Ruben Amorim defended his players, saying they were anxious to score and win but sometimes made the wrong decisions.
United's forward options are limited in Europe due to Chido Obi's ineligibility. Hojlund is likely to start, and Amorim will be hoping for a better performance in the next match. United host Arsenal in the Premier League on Sunday before facing Real Sociedad again on Tuesday.
blogpay
The club's only potential route to the Champions League is by winning the Europa League, which is challenging. Although they have reached the knockout stage, winning the tournament will be difficult.
Total Comments: 0