Manchester United's failure to replace Marcus Rashford in the January transfer window was not just a financial decision-it was part of a bigger plan. According to The Independent's Miguel Delaney, the club already has a deal in place to sign Sporting CP's Viktor Gyökeres this summer.
United have struggled for goals throughout the season, and the problem has persisted even after Ruben Amorim's appointment in November. Strikers Joshua Zirkzee and Rasmus Højlund have both underperformed, leaving the Red Devils lacking firepower in attack. While Zirkzee faced heavy criticism in the early stages of the campaign, Højlund has recently found himself under pressure due to a string of poor performances. The young Dane's struggles have been evident, whereas Zirkzee has shown signs of improvement since being substituted to boos from Old Trafford in a December clash against Newcastle.
United opted against signing a forward in January. Instead, they offloaded Marcus Rashford and Antony, leaving many puzzled about their lack of reinforcements. However, Delaney suggests that the decision was influenced by their long-term pursuit of Gyökeres.
Sporting CP had made it clear that Gyökeres' €100 million release clause would need to be triggered for any January departure. However, reports suggest that the Portuguese club has already agreed to let the Swedish striker leave in the summer for a reduced fee of €60 million to €70 million.
With 2023/24 proving to be a difficult season for United's attack, Gyökeres could be the answer to their goal-scoring problems. The 25-year-old has been in sensational form for Sporting, attracting interest from several top clubs. If the deal goes through, he will reunite with Amorim, who helped him develop into one of Europe's most sought-after strikers.
As the summer window approaches, United fans will be eager to see if this long-anticipated move materializes.
Comments