United’s striker swoop far from done despite ‘concrete move’ claims, with rivals allegedly leading the race – report

One thing is certain: Manchester United will be signing a striker this summer.

While it remains unclear who will ultimately lead the line at Old Trafford next season, strong indications suggest Sporting CP’s prolific forward Viktor Gyokeres could be the man to take the Theatre of Dreams by storm.

United’s early move for Gyokeres

On Tuesday, The Peoples Person, quoting French sources, reported that United were closing in on the Swedish striker, becoming the first major European club to make a concrete move for him.

Now, there’s an interesting update on United’s pursuit of the goal-scoring sensation.

Sport Witness, reacting to claims that United had made a decisive move for the forward, has assessed the credibility of these reports.

Arsenal emerge as serious competitors

The outlet cites several Portuguese sources, painting a clear picture: United do not have a free run in the race for the former Coventry City forward.

In fact, the Red Devils may need to worry about Arsenal.

According to O Jogo, United are a contender in the transfer battle, but Arsenal are currently leading the chase.

Meanwhile, A Bola reports that Gyokeres remains focused on Sporting’s cup final date this Sunday, after which he is expected to determine his future.

They, too, believe Arsenal are the main candidates to sign him.

Further complicating matters for United, Record (a reputable source in Portugal) does not mention them as having made a concrete move for Gyokeres, raising doubts about how advanced their interest truly is.

Can United fend off Arsenal?

The report concludes that while United may still be in the running for Gyokeres, suggestions that they are closing in on a deal may be premature.

Arsenal’s strong interest could derail any hopes of a reunion between Gyokeres and head coach Ruben Amorim.

Gyokeres: a proven goal machine

Gyokeres has been nothing short of a revelation at Sporting.

With one game remaining in the season, he boasts an astonishing record of 39 goals and eight assists in 33 Liga Portugal appearances.

Across all competitions, he has notched 53 goals and 13 assists, reinforcing why he is attracting serious interest.

Wherever he ends up, whether at Manchester United or Arsenal, one thing is certain: that team will be signing one of Europe’s most lethal finishers.

Featured image Gualter Fatia via Getty Images

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