Viktor Gyokeres has ‘told’ Ruben Amorim what Man Utd must do for him to snub Arsenal and complete Old Trafford move

The future of Swedish striker Viktor Gyokeres has become one of the most talked-about transfer stories heading into the summer, especially in the wake of Ruben Amorim’s appointment as the new Manchester United manager. As the Red Devils look to rebuild after a disappointing season, the possible reunion between Amorim and Gyokeres is being viewed as a potentially game-changing development at Old Trafford.

Manchester United have been in dire need of a consistent goal scorer, and their struggles in front of goal have been well-documented. Despite flashes of promise, both under Erik ten Hag and now under Amorim, the club has failed to produce the firepower needed to compete with the top clubs in England and Europe.

Gyokeres, who has been tearing up the Portuguese league with Sporting CP, has naturally emerged as a top target for the club. The 26-year-old forward has scored goals for fun in Liga Portugal this season, showcasing his power, movement, and sharp finishing — traits United desperately need.

His previous connection with Ruben Amorim has only strengthened United’s case. The pair formed a formidable partnership at Sporting, with Amorim playing a crucial role in developing Gyokeres into one of Europe’s most in-demand strikers. It’s no surprise that their names are being linked again as United seek attacking reinforcements.

However, while the idea of a reunion is appealing, Gyokeres has made it clear to Amorim that sentiment alone won’t be enough to bring him to Old Trafford. According to respected European journalist Christopher Michel, the striker has set a key condition for any potential move: Champions League football.

Michel stated via social media: “Viktor Gyokeres will be a hot topic on the transfer market this summer! But he wants to play [in the Champions League]. Arsenal and Chelsea are very interested. [Man Utd] is also looking closely, Amorim has developed him.”

This demand poses a serious challenge for Manchester United. While their Premier League campaign has been underwhelming, there’s still a glimmer of hope that they can deliver European football next season — albeit through a more difficult path.

Currently, United’s best route to Champions League qualification lies through the Europa League. The club stunned Lyon with a dramatic comeback earlier this month, keeping their European hopes alive. Now, they face Spanish side Athletic Club Bilbao in the semi-finals, with the first leg set to be played in the Basque Country this week.

Should United defeat Bilbao and go on to win the Europa League, they will secure automatic qualification for the Champions League — a crucial bargaining chip in their pursuit of Gyokeres. It’s a high-stakes scenario that could define the club’s entire summer transfer activity.

Gyokeres, who previously played for Coventry City in the Championship, is understood to be open to a return to England. His performances in Portugal have proven that he’s ready for the next step, and both Arsenal and Chelsea are circling in the hope of luring him to London.

Arsenal, in particular, are well-positioned. With Champions League football already guaranteed for next season and a squad brimming with attacking talent, Mikel Arteta is keen to add another dimension to his frontline. Gyokeres fits the profile: physical, versatile, and a relentless runner.

Chelsea, meanwhile, remain an unpredictable force in the transfer market. Despite a bloated squad and ongoing transition, their interest in Gyokeres reflects their desire to land a reliable striker who can lead the line — something they’ve lacked since the departure of Didier Drogba and the decline of Romelu Lukaku.

Still, Manchester United hold one potential ace in the pack — Ruben Amorim. The Portuguese coach has a close relationship with Gyokeres and helped elevate him to a new level at Sporting. If there’s any manager who can persuade him to join a club outside of the Champions League, it’s Amorim.

But as it stands, the decision rests with Gyokeres. With his stock rising, and interest from multiple top-tier clubs, he is firmly in control of his future. He knows his value and the power he wields in negotiations.

For Manchester United, this is more than just a transfer battle — it’s a test of ambition and planning. Can they provide the sporting project and competitive platform to convince a player like Gyokeres to snub their rivals and join the rebuild at Old Trafford?

If they fall short in Europe and fail to secure Champions League football, they risk missing out not only on Gyokeres but on several other elite targets. The pressure is on both the pitch and the boardroom as United look to save their season and reshape their future.

One thing is clear: if United want to win the race for Gyokeres, they must win more than just his heart — they must win the Europa League.

With the final in sight and a legacy-defining moment awaiting Ruben Amorim at the start of his United reign, this could be the summer that changes everything at Old Trafford.

And if Viktor Gyokeres does walk through the doors of Carrington this summer, it won’t just be because of familiarity or trust — it will be because Manchester United matched his ambition.