Sporting Lisbon striker Viktor Gyokeres has reportedly rejected a move to Manchester United, despite speculation linking him with a reunion with former manager Ruben Amorim at Old Trafford.
According to a report by Portuguese outlet Record, Gyokeres’ agent, Hasan Cetinkaya, is said to have informed United that the 27-year-old Sweden international is not interested in reuniting with Ruben Amorim in Manchester.
Gyokeres enjoyed a standout season in Portugal, scoring 54 goals in 52 appearances across all competitions.
His form placed him firmly on the radar of top European clubs, including United, who are looking to bolster their attacking options after an inconsistent season.
The potential of working again with Amorim, who is reportedly under consideration for the managerial job at United, had been seen as a possible advantage in the club’s pursuit of Gyokeres.
However, it appears to have had the opposite effect, with the striker signalling a desire to move in a different direction.
Arsenal are among the clubs monitoring the situation.
With Mikel Arteta’s side offering Champions League football and a more stable project, the Gunners could emerge as a more attractive option for Gyokeres as they seek to strengthen their front line ahead of another title challenge.
No formal bids have been confirmed, but interest from north London could intensify following Gyokeres’s apparent decision to reject United.
For Manchester United, this development marks another setback in what is expected to be a critical summer.
With Rasmus Højlund still developing and no proven top-tier striker secured, the club remains in need of a reliable goalscorer.
The rejection also highlights ongoing concerns about United’s ability to attract top talent amid uncertainty surrounding leadership, recruitment strategy, and managerial direction.
The situation raises broader questions about United’s standing in the transfer market. Once seen as a premier destination, the club’s inconsistent performances and structural ambiguity may now be prompting elite players to look elsewhere.
