Romano Claims Gyokeres to Man Utd Is ‘99% Done’ as Ruben Amorim Nears Reunion with Star Striker

Fabrizio Romano, one of the most trusted voices in football transfer news, has given Manchester United fans a massive boost in the ongoing saga involving Sporting CP’s star striker Viktor Gyokeres. The Italian journalist recently claimed that a move to Old Trafford was “99% done” before a dramatic twist in United’s European campaign complicated the deal.

Gyokeres, 26, had an extraordinary 2024/25 season in Portugal, scoring a staggering 54 goals in just 52 appearances while also helping Sporting secure a domestic league and cup double. Such prolific form has naturally drawn attention from Europe’s elite clubs, including Arsenal, Manchester United, and Saudi Arabia’s Al-Hilal.

Despite the noise surrounding his future, it’s Manchester United who appear to be leading the race—though not without obstacles. Romano noted that there is a verbal agreement in place that would allow Gyokeres to leave Sporting this summer for around €70 million. This pact was struck between the player, his representatives, and Sporting officials, indicating that the Portuguese club is willing to cooperate under the right financial conditions.

Initially, Arsenal were considered front-runners in the pursuit of the Swedish forward. Mikel Arteta’s side had held internal discussions and laid groundwork for a potential deal. However, recent developments show that the Gunners are now focused on signing RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko instead, who fits their tactical vision and long-term project better.

This shift in Arsenal’s priority could be a game-changer for Manchester United. Having missed out on Chelsea-bound Liam Delap, United’s focus has once again turned toward Gyokeres. According to Romano, even though the club failed to secure Champions League football for next season—losing out to Tottenham in the Europa League final—interest in the striker has not waned.

Romano stated on his YouTube channel that Manchester United had already initiated new contact with Gyokeres’ camp over the past few days. The discussions centered around the club’s readiness to step in should Arsenal pull out completely. While the financial setback caused by missing out on Champions League revenue—estimated at around £100 million—makes things more complicated, it hasn’t entirely derailed the plan.

“If United had qualified for the Champions League,” Romano said, “this deal would have been wrapped up weeks ago. They were 99% there. But now, they’re recalibrating their financials and exploring feasible options to still bring him in.”

Interestingly, Ruben Amorim, Sporting’s head coach, is also closely monitoring developments. Amorim is said to maintain a strong relationship with Gyokeres and could even see himself working with the striker again in the future. This has added fuel to speculation that if Amorim were to make a managerial move elsewhere, he might want to bring Gyokeres along with him.

Romano emphasized that while Arsenal remain in the picture, the lack of forward movement on their part has invited fresh bids and interest from other major clubs. “The situation remains fluid,” he said. “Until the Sesko deal is confirmed, Arsenal cannot be counted out. But for now, Gyokeres is available, and United are actively engaged.”

In another twist, Romano confirmed that Juventus had also contacted Gyokeres’ representatives. However, the financial demands of the deal could be too steep for the Turin-based side, especially given their tight budget constraints and other pressing priorities.

Meanwhile, Al-Hilal from Saudi Arabia have also entered the race, reportedly willing to offer a massive financial package to the player. Yet, according to Romano, Gyokeres is not interested in a move to Saudi Arabia at this stage in his career. His primary focus remains on competing at the highest levels of European football, with the Premier League seen as the ideal next destination.

“The interest from Saudi clubs is real,” Romano added, “but Gyokeres wants to continue his career in Europe. He’s ambitious and wants to test himself in a top league, and that’s good news for United.”

Romano concluded by assuring fans that despite the setbacks, Manchester United are not out of the race. The club has renewed its efforts behind the scenes, and a deal remains possible—if not probable—provided they can structure the payments to satisfy Financial Fair Play regulations.

Other pundits, including Sky Sports’ Dharmesh Sheth and Kaveh Solhekol, have corroborated Romano’s report, noting that United are also tracking Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo as a potential alternative. However, it’s clear that Gyokeres remains the club’s top priority.

Manchester United’s recruitment team, under the new leadership structure, is determined to revamp the squad with high-impact signings, and Gyokeres fits the bill perfectly. A relentless striker with proven goal-scoring ability, he’s seen as someone who could transform United’s attack and bring much-needed consistency to their front line.

With the Euros approaching and many clubs aiming to finalize deals before the tournament kicks off, the clock is ticking. However, as Romano has reminded fans time and time again: in the world of transfers, timing is everything, and United may yet spring a late surprise.

For now, all eyes are on Old Trafford. Will the Red Devils get their man? If they do, it could mark the beginning of a new era under their yet-to-be-unveiled long-term sporting project.