Big boost for United with 23-goal star available for £20m discount, Amorim must sign him - opinion
Manchester United have been handed a big boost in signing one of Sporting CP’s best players next summer, according to The Times.
The Red Devils have lacked the cutting edge in the final third this season and they have netted just nine goals from their opening 12 games.
Rasmus Hojlund has looked decent after his return from injury, but Joshua Zirkzee has been a big disappointment leading the attack.
The Dutchman made a good impression with a winning goal on debut off the bench, but he has failed to score in his next 13 appearances.
Zirkzee has missed four big chances this campaign and it has already been reported that new manager Ruben Amorim does not want him.
United are unlikely to make a high-profile change until the summer. We won’t be surprised if they swoop for the services of Viktor Gyokeres.
Gyokeres has been a revelation for Sporting CP with 63 goals and 19 assists from 66 appearances.
His form has been exemplary in the current campaign with 23 goals and four assists from 17 games.
There are doubts whether he can replicate such kind of form in the Premier League, but a reunion with Amorim would be an ideal scenario.
Gyokeres has grown accustomed to the playing style under Amorim at Sporting CP and this could bring the best out of him in English football.
The Times have now confirmed a big boost with Sporting CP prepared to provide a discount on the £83 million release clause in the striker’s contract.
The Portuguese champions are prepared to accept as low as £63m for the 26-year-old which could be a big incentive particularly for the Red Devils.
United have made huge outlay on some players over the years. This has proved costly in recent times in adjusting to the Profitability and Sustainability rules.
Gyokeres will be 27 before the start of next season. INEOS are focused on younger players, but they could give in for the striker if Amorim makes a demand.
The Swede would be a huge upgrade on Hojlund, who could play second fiddle for another few seasons before establishing himself as the main striker.
With Sporting CP willing to provide a £20m discount, it appears a no-brainer decision to sign the former Coventry City striker.
Amorim’s presence could play a massive part in persuading Gyokeres to move to Old Trafford.
A transfer could still depend on Zirkzee leaving the club on a permanent basis next summer.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com