Viktor Gyokeres to Man United: O’Rourke shares update on ‘dream signing’
Man United are working overtime to sign Viktor Gyokeres as Ruben Amorim makes it clear the striker is his number one target.
Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke revealed what sources have said about the 27-year-old’s future.
While Amorim is keen on a reunion with the Sporting CP star as his “dream signing”, there are concerns that the finances involved in any deal could limit their ambitions.
The Portuguese giants’ president has recently confirmed that there is no gentleman’s agreement in place to let Gyokeres leave for any less than his £85million release clause.
There are also question marks about whether the striker would want to move to Old Trafford without the promise of European football, but that has not scuppered their plans.
Football Insider revealed in November that Man United could tempt Gyokeres to sign regardless of whether they qualify for Europe’s premier competition.
Viktor Gyokeres update emerges at Man United
Football Insider exclusively revealed in April that Man United are confident of signing Gyokeres, with sources claiming it is already a “done deal”.
The goal machine has been the top target at Old Trafford since Amorim’s appointment after they built a strong relationship during their time together at Sporting.
Now, O’Rourke has explained that the striker remains United’s top target and they will push for an agreement if they can find a compromise on the finances.
“The number nine is a key priority position they would like to strengthen in,” he told Football Insider.
“As things stand, Viktor Gyokeres is the top target for United.
“Ruben Amorim knows all about him from their time at Sporting Lisbon, they had such great success together and he would be the number one target.
“A lot of it will come down to finances with Gyokeres and whether they can agree a fee.
“Sporting’s president had admitted there is no gentleman’s agreement to let him leave for below his release clause.
“Then, will Gyokeres be willing to make the move with no Champions League football on offer?
“Right now, I’d say if United could pick their dream signing for the number nine position, Gyokeres would be it.”
Jean-Philippe Mateta update emerges at Old Trafford
Gyokeres is not the only striker on the radar at Old Trafford, as they are also keeping a close eye on Jean-Philippe Mateta’s situation at Crystal Palace.
Former United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider on 12 June that Palace have opened contract talks with Mateta amid interest in his signature.
However, if talks do not progress at planned, Amorim’s side are considering swooping in to land his signature, particularly if they fail to land other top targets.
The Eagles are also believed to have begun putting plans in place in case they lose Mateta, as Brown told Football Insider Crystal Palace are closely watching Emanuel Emegha.
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