Manchester United have reportedly entered the race to sign Viktor Gyokeres, potentially disrupting Arsenal‘s pursuit of the Sporting CP striker. Man United are said to be close to agreeing a deal, despite the player’s apparent preference for a move to the Emirates. This development adds another layer of complexity to the transfer saga.
Manchester United’s need for a new striker is no secret. The club have struggled for goals this past season. A move for Gyokeres would address this glaring issue. The forward previously played under Ruben Amorim at Sporting CP. Some reports suggest the manager wanted to reunite with the Swede at Old Trafford.
Arsenal face competition for signing of Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres
Arsenal had seemingly emerged as the frontrunners for the Swedish international. Reports last week indicated a €73.5 million agreement in principle with Sporting CP. However, the deal has stalled. This delay has opened the door for Manchester United to make their move.
Manchester United were prepared to outbid Arsenal before their initial agreement. However, the striker’s desire to join the Gunners complicated matters. Some reports even suggested Arsenal’s move could collapse entirely. This was due to a failure to finalize the agreement with Sporting CP. Meanwhile, Manchester United are now rumored to be closing in on their own agreement.
Could financial terms sway Viktor Gyokeres away from Arsenal?
In theory, Manchester United can offer Sporting CP more favorable financial terms. They could be willing to meet the Portuguese club’s demands more readily than Arsenal. This could potentially sway the deal in their favor. It all depends on how much the striker prioritizes his preferred destination over financial gains.
However, Gyokeres’s clear preference to join Arsenal remains a significant hurdle. Fabrizio Romano confirmed the Swede’s desire to join only Arsenal. Therefore, even if Manchester United agree on a fee, they need the player’s approval to proceed. This highlights the power players now wield in transfer negotiations.
Gunners remain favorites despite Man United interest
As things stand, Arsenal are still the favorites to sign Gyokeres. The deal has been dragging on for over a week. Reports suggest only minor details regarding add-ons need resolving. However, a deal with Manchester United now adds pressure. Should Arsenal finalize a move soon, he could join their pre-season tour of Asia.
The situation remains fluid. Manchester United’s entry has injected uncertainty into what seemed a near-certain transfer. Arsenal must act swiftly to secure their target. Otherwise, they risk losing out on a key attacking reinforcement to their rivals. The coming days will be crucial in determining Gyokeres’s next destination.
