Liverpool legend tips Manchester United to hijack deal for European marksman

Manchester United backed to sign Viktor Gyokeres
After a disappointing domestic campaign, Manchester United are preparing for a major summer rebuild. While their Premier League form has been underwhelming, the Red Devils have exceeded expectations in Europe, remaining unbeaten in the Europa League and emerging as genuine contenders for the trophy.

In a development that will excite fans, a Liverpool legend, Mark Lawrenson, has now tipped United to beat Arsenal in the race to sign prolific Swedish striker Viktor Gyökeres this summer.

The Swedish international has rapidly become one of the most sought-after centre-forwards in world football. Since arriving at Sporting CP in July 2023, the Swedish striker has delivered a staggering 85 goals in 92 appearances, an astonishing return that has caught the attention of Europe’s elite. Despite being unable to leave last summer due to a €100 million release clause, Gyökeres has remained relentless, scoring an incredible 42 goals in 42 games this season alone.

Now, Sporting CP are reportedly ready to cash in, placing a £50 million (€59m/$65m) price tag on their star forward. Arsenal remain very keen on securing his signature, but Manchester United are set to provide serious competition. With Ruben Amorim now at the helm at Old Trafford—and having previously worked with Gyökeres at Sporting—the Portuguese manager is eager to reunite with the prolific striker, potentially giving United an edge in the race.

Former Liverpool star Mark Lawrenson has confidently claimed that Manchester United will “undoubtedly” secure the signing of Viktor Gyökeres if the striker leaves Sporting CP in the upcoming transfer window.

Speaking with Manchester Evening News,here is what he said

“Arsenal signing Victor Gyokeres would be the final piece of the jigsaw they’d need to win the Premier League,”

“However, if the player is choosing between Arsenal or Manchester United, then I think he’s choosing United as he’s got a mate there straight away in Ruben Amorim and the manager already knows exactly how to get the best out of him.

“I can’t see him going anywhere else other than Manchester United, regardless of money. Despite them not having European football next season. If Amorim wants him, he’ll get him.”

As Lawrenson highlights, Gyökeres may have to forgo Champions League football if he joins Manchester United, unless they secure the Europa League title.

However, Amorim, who played a key role in transforming the 26-year-old into a prolific striker at Sporting, is confident in persuading him to commit to United’s project.