While Matheus Cunha and Liam Delap remain firmly cemented atop Manchester United’s shortlist this summer, that’s not to say there aren’t other targets being pursued behind the scenes.
Plenty of the Old Trafford faithful had grown resigned to missing out on Viktor Gyokeres due to his desire to play Champions League football next season, which, of course, the Red Devils can only offer if they reign victorious in the Europa League come May 21.
Yet, with a two-legged semi-final on the way and a potential final awaiting against either Tottenham Hotspur or Bodø/Glimt, United are undoubtedly one of the major favourites to get their hands on the trophy for the second time in their history, simultaneously booking their spot among Europe’s elite next term.
Why Gyokeres is one of the most sought-after stars of the summer
One look at the Sporting Lisbon talisman’s numbers makes it no surprise he’s such a major talking point heading into the transfer window.
An unfathomable 52 goals and 12 assists in 48 appearances have established Gyokeres as one of the most clinical centre-forwards in world football. With multiple clubs set to enter the market in search of a world-class No.9, he’s likely to receive numerous approaches when he signs off in 2024/2025.
Who else is in the race for Gyokeres?
In terms of the suitors, the 26-year-old could potentially choose from, all of Arsenal, Chelsea, Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain have emerged as candidates to seal his signature – as well as the Red Devils.
Premier League-proven Delap is thought to be INEOS’ first-choice to rival Rasmus Hojlund for the starting spot up front, but United aren’t down and out in their pursuit of Gyokeres just yet.
Sky Sports reporter Florian Plettenberg claims that while there’s ‘no agreement’ in place between him and the Reds, ‘concrete talks’ have taken place and Ruben Amorim is ‘very keen on him’.
The ex-Coventry City star played 68 matches under Amorim in Lisbon, scoring 66 goals and assisting a further 19.
Amorim would love to get Gyokeres here this summer. To do so he must find a way to WIN the europa league. He (Gyokeres) wants Champions League football and with a club who he thinks can win it. He trusts Amorim and he knows that if INEOS gets him the right players for his system, he can achieve this in the next few years.
Cunha, Gyokeres, and Fernandes up front, will win us games as long as they get the service from midfield and the wing backs.
For all this to be a reality Amorim MUST find a way to go and win this Europa League. Getting over Athletic Club is the next big hurdle. This will be a game of tactical nous between the 2 managers. Then it is up to the players he chooses to do the job on the field. The fans will support every step of the way. I hope and pray that we can do it.
United need to get gyokeres Emerson a goalkeeper and center back the academy will supply all other needs
Amorim has already stated if players only want to join champion league clubs he don’t want them ie Gyorkes/ Delap who both have stated they want that.
Get a new manager amorim, is all about his way which isn’t working go back to the old days and start to win again ??
If you got a non-producing woman, but not totally barren, how long would you be patient with her despite your need for a child? Give Amorim time.