Viktor Gyokeres, the prolific striker for Sporting CP, is generating significant buzz around potential transfer movements, particularly as the January transfer window approaches. Despite the heightened interest from major clubs including Manchester United and Bayern Munich, it appears Sporting CP is prepared to retain the Swedish center-forward through the winter.
According to recent reports from Sky Sport Germany’s Florian Plettenberg, Sporting CP is not planning to part ways with Gyokeres anytime soon. The 26-year-old forward joined the Portuguese club from Coventry City last year, and his price tag has reportedly skyrocketed since then. Initially transferring for €20 million, Gyokeres is now estimated to be worth up to five times this amount, reflecting his exceptional scoring abilities.
Gyokeres has made headlines with his stunning form this season, netting 30 goals across all competitions, including 21 in just 17 Primeira Liga matches. His contributions were pivotal last season as well, where he helped Sporting CP clinch the title, scoring 43 goals.
With such performance benchmarks, it's no wonder clubs like Manchester United, Manchester City, Barcelona, and Real Madrid have taken interest. Despite the speculation surrounding his future, Fabrizio Romano, who writes for GIVEMESPORT, confirms Gyokeres is unlikely to leave Sporting during this January window. Sources maintain there is no imminent transfer planned, and Sporting intends to keep the striker until at least the summer.
The situation has led many to speculate about other striker options for top European clubs, especially if Gyokeres remains at Sporting. Lille's Jonathan David and PSG's Randal Kolo Muani may surface as alternative targets should clubs like Manchester United look elsewhere as they assess their options for both January and the summer transfer market.
Reports also indicate Manchester United will continue to explore striker possibilities, with Gyokeres being among the key targets for the summer. Under the management of Ruben Amorim, who previously coached Gyokeres at Sporting, there’s potential for familiarity to play a role should United pursue him.
Gyokeres' impressive track record under Amorim, where he scored 66 goals in 68 appearances, shows just how effective the partnership has been. United fans reminisce fondly about his hat-trick against Manchester City back in November, which highlighted his capability to perform at the highest levels.
Despite this burgeoning relationship, there are nuances to navigate, as Amorim has publicly declared he wouldn’t raid Sporting for players immediately after taking the reins at Old Trafford. Nonetheless, following what has been deemed a tough start for the club, there may be pressure to capitalize on Gyokeres' talents sooner rather than later.
Currently, Gyokeres' management is reportedly focused on preparing for a 'massive deal' in the summer. While reports suggest he could fetch around £50 million, this amount will be appealing to clubs like Manchester United, hungry to improve their squad for the upcoming seasons.
Looking forward, the trend surrounding Gyokeres' future is clear. He has firmly established himself as one of Europe's leading goal scorers, and it would be no surprise to see multiple top clubs engaging in fierce competition for his signature during the summer window.
What remains to be seen is whether Sporting CP can hold onto their star striker amid the whirlwind of interest. All eyes will be on Gyokeres' continued performances as clubs monitor his every move, waiting for their chance to present the right offer.