Manchester United have been handed a big boost in their bid to sign one of Sporting CP’s best players next summer, according to The Times.
The Red Devils have lacked a cutting edge in the final third this season, scoring just nine goals from their opening ten league 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 huge 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 season, and new manager Ruben Amorim reportedly does not want him.
United are unlikely to make a high-profile change until the summer. They will likely swoop for Viktor Gyokeres.
Gyokeres has been a revelation for Sporting CP, bagging 63 goals and 19 assists in 66 appearances.
His form has been exemplary this term, with 23 goals and four assists in 17 games.
There are doubts about whether he can replicate his 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, and this could bring out the best in him in English football.
United have been handed a big boost, with Sporting reportedly prepared to provide a discount on the £83 million release clause in the striker’s contract.
The Portuguese champions are prepared to accept £63m for the 26-year-old, which could be a huge incentive for the Red Devils.
United have made a huge outlay on players in recent years, which has caused concerns regarding Profitability and Sustainability rules.
Gyokeres will be 27 before the start of next season. United are focused on younger players, but they make an exception for the striker if Amorim wants him.
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 permanently next summer.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com.