Viktor Gyokeres: Hot Transfer Target After Stunning Hat-Trick

Viktor Gyokeres is quickly emerging as one of the most desirable strikers in European football. The forward for Sporting Lisbon showcased his outstanding form by scoring a hat-trick in their dominant 4-1 Champions League victory against Manchester City, bringing his impressive total to 27 goals in just 21 appearances for both Sporting and the Sweden national team this season.

Having a release clause of £83 million, Gyokeres is likely to be among the most sought-after players in the transfer market next summer, attracting interest from numerous top clubs throughout Europe. Which team could the 26-year-old potentially join?

Manchester United is closely watching the Swedish forward. The Red Devils are likely to make several decisions about their roster as Ruben Amorim, a potential future manager, takes the helm. While Rasmus Hojlund is currently the first-choice striker for United, he has struggled to find consistent form since his £72 million transfer from Atalanta in 2023. Additionally, Joshua Zirkzee, another summer acquisition, has had difficulties with playing time and scoring. Gyokeres, who thrived under Amorim at Sporting, might reunite with the manager at Old Trafford, but his significant release clause could complicate a move in January.

When asked about the possibility of Gyokeres moving to United, Amorim stated, “Gyokeres is a Sporting player, which is a great club. He has contributed a great deal, and he simply needs to stay and complete the season there.” Amorim also highlighted his respect for Sporting and his dedication to remaining focused on his present responsibilities. It is important to note that it was United’s sporting director, Dan Ashworth, who facilitated Gyokeres’ original transfer from Brighton to Coventry, before Sporting acquired him for £17 million in 2023.

Arsenal, another club interested in Gyokeres, may also join the competition to sign the striker. The Gunners are believed to be looking for a high-quality forward, as Kai Havertz has been filling the role but still needs to demonstrate that he can consistently lead the attack. Arsenal legend Ian Wright has indicated that the team "needs a killer" up front, making Gyokeres a potentially ideal addition. Nevertheless, Arsenal might consider the £83 million release clause too high, although reports indicate that Sporting could accept an offer between £50 million and £80 million for the striker next summer.

Currently, it appears that Gyokeres will continue with Sporting for the rest of the season. Having achieved ten victories in ten matches, they are strong contenders to capture the Portuguese title once more, and their impressive 4-1 win against Manchester City in the Champions League indicates they have the potential for a significant run in the tournament. Gyokeres might opt to remain for an additional season to enhance his development, or Sporting could choose to retain him for at least one more year.

Alongside Manchester United and Arsenal, Barcelona is also being mentioned as a potential destination for Gyokeres. According to reports from Spain, the Catalan club may be able to negotiate a deal in the range of £50 million to £60 million by selling Vitor Roque, who is currently on loan at Real Betis, in a deal that involves both players and cash. Barcelona is said to view Gyokeres as a long-term successor to the 36-year-old Robert Lewandowski.