Ruben Amorim’s January Transfer Strategy: Will Viktor Gyokeres Arrive at Manchester United?

As Manchester United look ahead to the January transfer window, new manager Ruben Amorim faces a pressing challenge: reshaping the squad to suit his style. Among his priorities is strengthening the forward line, and the 26-year-old Viktor Gyokeres has emerged as a key target. However, Amorim may have to bide his time before the Swedish striker arrives at Old Trafford, as Sporting Lisbon’s firm stance on his price tag could complicate a January move.

Gyokeres at the Top of Amorim’s List

Viktor Gyokeres has enjoyed a successful run at Sporting Lisbon, and his relationship with Amorim dates back to their time together at the club. Under Amorim’s guidance, Gyokeres was instrumental in helping Sporting claim the Portuguese title last season. With such a proven track record, it’s no surprise that Amorim has identified him as one of his top targets for the upcoming transfer window.

According to The Mirror, Manchester United have been watching Gyokeres closely, with the striker becoming one of their most wanted players. The interest is mutual, with A Bola confirming that United are among the “most interested” clubs in the forward. However, despite the interest from Amorim and the Red Devils, it appears that a move in January may be unlikely.

Sporting Lisbon’s Strong Negotiating Position

Gyokeres is under contract with Sporting until 2028, a deal that gives the Portuguese giants considerable leverage in any negotiations. As a result, Sporting are demanding a significant fee for their prized asset. Reports suggest that the club would be firm on a hefty £83 million transfer fee, which could put off potential suitors, especially in the January window when clubs are often reluctant to spend large sums mid-season.

While The Mirror states that Sporting may soften their stance in the summer, it seems unlikely that United will be able to secure Gyokeres’ services in January unless they meet the asking price. This delay could force United to reassess their options as they look to strengthen their forward line in the short term.

United’s Shift in Transfer Focus

Despite their interest in Gyokeres, Manchester United are also exploring other options. The club’s pursuit of Bayer Leverkusen striker Victor Boniface appears to have cooled, with Sky Germany reporting that United have not held talks with Leverkusen over the 23-year-old. Boniface’s remarkable form last season, which helped his side secure a domestic double, had attracted attention from several clubs, including United. However, United’s priorities have shifted, with their focus now firmly on Gyokeres.

Interestingly, it seems that the Swedish forward has become a more concrete target for United, with The Mirror noting that the club’s interest is much more serious than their pursuit of Boniface. In light of this, United may well return to the negotiating table with Sporting in the summer, when they are likely to have more flexibility to strike a deal.

The Road Ahead for Ruben Amorim and Manchester United

As January approaches, Manchester United’s transfer plans are becoming clearer. Ruben Amorim’s immediate task is to find the right players to complement his tactical approach, particularly in attack. Gyokeres, with his versatility, pace, and finishing ability, is clearly a player who fits the profile Amorim desires. However, whether United can secure his signature this winter remains to be seen, with Sporting’s hefty asking price likely to be a major stumbling block.

With the January window just around the corner, it will be interesting to see how Manchester United navigate this situation. If a move for Gyokeres proves difficult, they may turn to alternative targets to bolster their attacking options for the remainder of the season.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

Ruben Amorim’s move for Viktor Gyokeres makes perfect sense. The Swedish striker is a proven goal scorer in Portugal and fits the profile of a player who could thrive in the Premier League. His ability to link up play, combined with his clinical finishing, would add a new dimension to United’s attack.

However, the £83 million price tag for Gyokeres seems steep, particularly for a player whose contract runs until 2028. While Sporting Lisbon are understandably keen to maximise the value of their asset, it’s hard to see United agreeing to such a large fee in January, especially given their current squad and the financial strain of mid-season transfers.

This is where Amorim’s tactical nous will be tested. If a deal for Gyokeres can’t be done, he’ll need to identify other targets who can immediately contribute to the squad. United’s forward line is crying out for improvement, and if Gyokeres is unavailable, alternatives must be pursued to ensure the club doesn’t fall further behind in the Premier League race. For now, it looks like the Gyokeres saga will drag on into the summer, but it’s a story worth watching.