Viktor Gyokeres has fueled rumors of a move to Manchester United by admitting he dreams of emulating former Red Devils striker Cristiano Ronaldo.
The 26-year-old Sporting Lisbon star has become Europe's most sought-after striker since moving to Portugal on a free transfer 18 months ago. And United are one of many clubs looking to move Gyokeres away from Lisbon at the end of the season.
While there is likely to be stiff competition to sign Gyokeres, United have emerged as the slight favorites to land his services after appointing his former boss, Ruben Amorim, as their new head coach last month.
Amorim may have sworn off joining Sporting in the January transfer window, but he has left the door open for a summer move. Gyokeres' admiration for two former Manchester United stars has fans buzzing online.
“The players I looked up to were Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Cristiano Ronaldo,” Gyokeres told UEFA.com when asked who his idols were growing up ahead of Sporting's upcoming match against Club Brugge in the Champions League.
“It's about how they performed on the pitch, they went the extra mile, which impressed me. I wanted to do similar things on the pitch.”
Both Ronaldo and Ibrahimovic had successful spells at Manchester United, who have seemingly identified Gyokeres as their next first-choice number 9. Last week it was claimed by Sky Germany that United have already opened talks with Sporting over a deal for Gyokeres, who scored an impressive 43 goals last season.
The striker's contract contains an £83 million buyout clause and runs until the summer of 2028. However, it has been suggested that Sporting could do business for a lower fee of £66 million due to a gentleman's agreement with the player.
Amorim has already played down transfer rumors, while Gyokeres himself has been asked about the possibility of joining his former boss at Old Trafford. He also tried to cool transfer speculation after rumors that his departure from Sporting was imminent.
Gyokeres said last month: “Am I going to Man United with Amorim? I don't know, I'm here. I really enjoy being here, it's not something I think about. I'm enjoying this. I'm sad for him.” departure. We wish him all the best.”
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