Manchester United were heavily linked with Swedish goal-machine Viktor Gyokeres this past summer. But in the end, they didn’t pull the trigger. And as the dust settles, some voices believe United may have avoided a costly mistake.
The Gyokeres story
Gyokeres broke out at Sporting CP, scoring 54 goals in 52 games and helping his club to back-to-back league titles. His contract had a release clause reported around £85 million. But Sporting were said to be willing to listen to offers closer to £55–60m. United reportedly offered more than Arsenal for Gyokeres, according to his agent.
Why United pulled back
Several factors played into United’s decision:
- No Champions League football meant a less appealing destination for Gyokeres.
- The fee, even at a “discount”, was still hefty for a player who had yet to prove himself in the Premier League.
- United’s strategy under the current regime appears more measured, rather than chasing big names.
What it means for United
By not going all-in, United have freed up money for other priorities — or avoided tying up funds in a high-risk transfer. With big outlays already for attackers like Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo, signing Gyokeres could have overloaded the budget. Also, if Gyokeres struggled early, the pressure would have been intense.
Could things change in future?
This don’t mean Gyokeres is off the radar forever. The Red’s could revisit if conditions change: if he proves himself in another league, or if United get back into top-level European competition. Meanwhile, Sporting hold the upper hand. Their president denied any cheap exit clause for Gyokeres, saying a deal for €60m plus is not guaranteed.
Author’s Insight
In big-club football, the biggest decisions are often the ones not made. The Red’s avoiding this move doesn’t mean they didn’t want the player — it means they weighed risk and reward and opted for caution. If Gyokeres becomes a superstar in the Premier League, United will look back and say “should we have made a move?” But equally, if he stumbles, United may be glad they kept their powder dry. What matters now is how they deploy resources saved, and whether their measured strategy pays off.
As featured on ManUNews.com
