United told dream striker “wants to join them” in major twist to the summer’s biggest transfer saga – report

Viktor Gyokeres has surprisingly informed Manchester United that he wants to join them this summer, as per reports.

United are very close to signing Bryan Mbeumo from Brentford, having reportedly struck an agreement over his transfer fee. 

Mbeumo is expected to follow Matheus Cunha through the door at Old Trafford before the start of United’s pre-season tour in what would be a statement move by Ineos. 

However, the club’s hierarchy have no plans to slow down, with a top striker next on their list as Ruben Amorim is determined to bring in a new attacker to lead his side’s line. And it has emerged that the Red Devils have made a surprise breakthrough in this pursuit as well.

According to Teamtalk, Gyokeres has sent a clear message to United, informing the Mancunians that “he wants to join them” this summer, despite interest from elsewhere. 

This is certainly a major twist as so far it has been widely reported that the 27-year-old is determined to play in the Champions League and is accordingly prioritising a move to Arsenal. Liverpool have also been heavily linked with the Sweden international.

However, it is understood that “a blockbuster reunion” with Amorim is still on the cards.

The United head coach signed Gyokeres from Championship outfit Coventry City for his Sporting side in 2023 and helped him turn into one of Europe’s most prolific goalscorers. 

The Swede has bagged 97 goals in 102 appearances for the Lisbon-based outfit and is viewed as Amorim’s dream target to fix United’s goalscoring woes.

Gyokeres is determined to cut ties with the Lions this summer, having informed the club bosses of his desire to not play for the side ever again.

Accordingly, Sporting are thought to be eyeing a move for Almeria forward Luis Javier Suárez to potentially replace their talisman.

Gyokeres has a €100m release clause in his contract in Lisbon and it remains unclear whether Sporting will accept a considerable discount on that figure.

As such, even if United are now Gyokeres’ destination of choice, it is not going to be easy to get the deal over the line without major sales considering their financial predicament. 

Featured image Michael Campanella via Getty Images

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