Viktor Gyökeres has reportedly rejected a move to Manchester United.
This was reported by Record Portugal, who revealed that despite the opportunity for him to reunite with his former Sporting CP coach Rúben Amorim at Manchester United, the player's preference is a team that prioritizes European football.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Gyökeres prefers a move to Arsenal, although the Gunners still have concrete interest in Benjamin Šeško, a long-term target since last season. Sporting CP participated in the Champions League last season, although they were eliminated early. At 27, it’s not surprising that Gyökeres’ priority is to play European football, despite also receiving interest from Saudi Arabian clubs.
According to his agent, Sporting are reportedly expected to let him leave if a club offers £60 million plus £10 million in add-ons. However, Sporting CP’s Sporting Director earlier denied this, leading to a back-and-forth between both parties. Some have suggested that it was a PR move—especially since there hadn't been major headlines about him before. Regardless, the Swedish striker is available on the market this summer, and with 52 goals and 12 assists in 49 matches, it's no surprise that Manchester United would want him as part of their squad rebuild.
However, United will not be playing European football next season after losing the Europa League final to Spurs. In addition, they finished 15th in the Premier League, making it their worst league finish ever. Honestly, no world-class player in his right senses—unless he doesn’t have much of a choice or is a die-hard fan of the club—would willingly join a team struggling like that, especially while in his prime.
Despite Gyökeres' stance, United reportedly remain in contact with his camp, although a deal currently seems unlikely. As a United fan, I honestly don't know if it hurts because I would prefer Victor Osimhen. However after helping Galatasaray qualify for the champions League just like Gyokeres help Sporting qualify, I doubt he would want to do without champions League football.
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