Man Utd to 'join Viktor Gyokeres race' as Amorim has advantage after star's left 'upset'

Manchester United could be about to join the race to sign Viktor Gyokeres with Ruben Amorim reportedly interested in bringing him to Old Trafford.

Gyokeres has enjoyed a stellar stint under the departing Amorim, having joined the Libson-based outfit from EFL Championship outfit Coventry City last season.

Boasting a remarkable goals record, Gyokeres was once again on target during Amorim’s penultimate home match in charge on Friday evening.

The 26-year-old wowed fans inside the Jose Alvalade Stadium by netting a first-half hat-trick, serving up the perfect goodbye present for Amorim.

The 39-year-old tactician is set to join United as Erik ten Hag’s replacement during the November international break, but, depending on how things play out, Gyokeres might not be too far behind him.

According to Sky Germany, there is an expectation that United will register interest in the Swedish striker following Amorim’s arrival at the club.

United will have to fend off big-name interest in Gyokeres’ signature, with Manchester City, Arsenal, Liverpool and Chelsea all rumoured to be keeping tabs on the prolific marksman.

But, unlike their Premier League rivals, United and Amorim do have a secret weapon that could help them out.

It’s no secret that Gyokeres and Amorim have struck up a wonderful working relationship in the time he’s been at the club, with the attacker – alongside his Sporting team-mates – rumoured to have been upset the manager is departing.

If it comes down to picking United over another top European outfit, that existing connection is bound to work in the Red Devils’ favour.

However, Gyokeres will no doubt cost a fair amount, given Sporting will want to make a profit on their £20m investment, with a reported a release clause in the region of £60m active next summer.

Whether United spring a move could depend on the form of the two strikers currently on their books, both of which were signed during the last two summer transfer windows.

Rasmus Hojlund took a little time to get off the ground but has since looked good money for his £72m arrival from Atalanta.

Concerns have been raised over the Dane’s fitness record though, with Hojlund having missed the first month of the 2024/25 campaign with a hamstring problem.

Joshua Zirkzee was brought in from Bologna to help alleviate the pressure on Hojlund, but the Dutchman has so far underwhelmed and is one of several players who Amorim will be demanding more from.

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