Manchester United are reportedly keeping a close eye on Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyökeres ahead of the upcoming January transfer window, according to multiple media outlets. The Swedish forward, who has been in impressive form for the Portuguese side since joining them in 2023, is emerging as a potential target for the Red Devils as they look to strengthen their attacking options in the mid-season transfer window.
Gyökeres, 25, made the move to Sporting after a successful spell with Coventry City in the English Championship, where he was widely regarded as one of the division’s best forwards. His performances at Coventry earned him a transfer to one of Portugal’s biggest clubs, and he has continued to impress in the Primeira Liga. His combination of pace, physicality, and clinical finishing has caught the eye of scouts across Europe, with Manchester United among the clubs reportedly monitoring his progress closely.
United’s interest in Gyökeres comes at a time when the club is facing a number of attacking challenges. The Red Devils have been struggling with injuries to key forwards, and with limited depth in the striker position, manager Erik ten Hag is thought to be actively exploring options to bolster his attacking lineup. Gyökeres, who can play both as a central striker and a winger, offers the kind of versatility that Ten Hag values in his players. His ability to operate across the front line would provide United with much-needed flexibility in their forward play.
In his short time at Sporting, Gyökeres has showcased his goal-scoring prowess, notching up several goals and assists in both domestic and European competitions. His movement off the ball, combined with his finishing ability, makes him a constant threat in front of goal. His high work rate and ability to press from the front would also fit well into Ten Hag’s tactical setup, which emphasizes pressing and quick transitions.
United’s pursuit of Gyökeres is further fueled by the club’s need for long-term reinforcements. Although veteran forwards such as Marcus Rashford and Bruno Fernandes have been central to the club’s attacking play, Rashford has been inconsistent at times, and the squad lacks an out-and-out striker capable of consistently leading the line. Gyökeres, with his ability to hold the ball up and link play, could provide the ideal complement to Rashford and other attacking players such as Jadon Sancho and Alejandro Garnacho.
However, United may face competition for Gyökeres’ signature. Other Premier League clubs, including Newcastle United and West Ham, are believed to be monitoring the striker’s situation. Additionally, Sporting, which has been known to demand high fees for their star players, may not be willing to part with Gyökeres unless their valuation is met. This could mean that Manchester United will need to act quickly and decisively if they are to secure his services in January.
With the transfer window still several weeks away, there is plenty of time for negotiations to unfold. However, as the clock ticks down, Manchester United will be hoping that their early interest in Viktor Gyökeres will give them a head start in what promises to be a competitive race for his signature. Whether they can land the Swedish striker will depend on several factors, including Sporting’s willingness to sell and the terms of any potential deal. Regardless, Gyökeres’ name is sure to remain one to watch as the January transfer window approaches.
