While Sporting Lisbon demands 65 million from Chelsea, Manchester United face higher price for Viktor Gyökeres

Sporting Lisbon have set a hefty £85 million price tag on in-demand striker Viktor Gyökeres as Manchester United intensify their pursuit of the Swedish international. The Blues have also expressed interest in the 24-year-old, but Sporting has reportedly demanded a slightly lower fee of £65 million from the London club.

A Rising Star

Gyökeres has quickly established himself as one of the most promising young strikers in European football. His physical presence, combined with his technical ability and eye for goal, make him a formidable opponent for any defender. The Swedish international has been compared to Zlatan Ibrahimović, due to his similar playing style and stature.

Manchester United's Striker Search

Manchester United have been on the lookout for a new striker for some time. The Red Devils have struggled to replace Romelu Lukaku and Edinson Cavani, and their lack of a reliable goalscorer has been a major concern for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. Gyökeres is seen as a long-term solution to United's problems up front.

Chelsea's Offensive Woes

Chelsea's interest in Gyökeres comes amid a frustrating season for the club. The Blues have struggled to find a consistent goalscorer since the departure of Eden Hazard, and their attacking play has been often criticized. Thomas Tuchel is keen to add a clinical finisher to his squad, and Gyökeres is seen as the perfect candidate.

Sporting Lisbon's Stance

Sporting Lisbon are under no pressure to sell Gyökeres, and they are confident that they can command a high fee for their prized asset. The club's sporting director, Ruben Amorim, has publicly stated that Gyökeres is an important part of his plans, but he has also admitted that the club will listen to offers if they are deemed to be satisfactory.

The Price Tag

The £85 million price tag for Manchester United reflects the high demand for Gyökeres and Sporting Lisbon's belief in his potential. The club believes that the Swedish striker has the ability to become one of the best strikers in the world and are therefore demanding a premium for his services.

A Bidding War?

With both Chelsea and Manchester United interested, a bidding war could ensue. However, the significant difference in the asking price for the two clubs could complicate matters. Manchester United may be willing to pay the higher fee, but Chelsea may be reluctant to go that high.

Impact on the Clubs

• Manchester United: Signing Gyökeres would provide United with a much-needed focal point in attack. His physical presence and goal-scoring ability would make him a formidable force in the Premier League.
• Chelsea: Gyökeres would add depth and competition to Chelsea's attacking options. His ability to play as a lone striker or as part of a front two would give Thomas Tuchel more tactical flexibility.
• Sporting Lisbon: Selling Gyökeres would generate a significant amount of revenue for the club, which could be reinvested into the squad. However, it would also leave a big hole in the team.

The Wider Market

The potential transfer of Gyökeres highlights the inflated prices in the modern transfer market. The £85 million fee being demanded by Sporting Lisbon is a significant sum, even for clubs of the stature of Manchester United and Chelsea.

Conclusion

The future of Viktor Gyökeres is uncertain, but it is clear that he is one of the most sought-after strikers in European football. With both Chelsea and Manchester United interested, a bidding war could ensue. However, the final decision will ultimately rest with Sporting Lisbon, who will be looking to maximize their profit from the sale of their prized asset.