Manchester United have missed out on Viktor Gyokeres, with the striker turning down a move to the club and the Red Devils are now looking at potential alternatives
Manchester United were hoping to sign Sporting striker Viktor Gyokeres this summer, but Mirror Football understands that the 27-year-old has rejected a move to Old Trafford and would prefer to join Arsenal instead.
The striker wants to join a club that will be playing Champions League football next season and United failed to qualify for the tournament after finishing 15th in the Premier League and suffering a 1-0 defeat to Tottenham in the Europa League final.
The news comes as a major blow for United, with manager Ruben Amorim keen on a reunion with Gyokeres, and the club are now turning their attention to alternative options. The Red Devils are in need of a prolific striker, with Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee disappointing last season.
The pair managed just 17 goals between them in a combined 105 appearances across all competitions and Amorim is desperate to bring in an upgrade. United have already signed Matheus Cunha from Wolves, but he is expected to play in a slightly deeper role.
With all that in mind, Mirror Football takes a look at three potential alternatives to Gyokeres...
Hugo Ekitike
Hugo Ekitike has been linked with a number of clubs across Europe after an impressive campaign where he scored 22 goals and provided 12 assists in 48 games for Eintracht Frankfurt.
According to Sky Germany, United have opened talks with Frankfurt over a deal and the Bundesliga side are demanding a fee of around £85million. However, the report adds that both Liverpool and Chelsea are also interested in Ekitike.
Victor Osimhen
Victor Osimhen is expected to leave Napoli this summer after spending last season on loan at Galatasaray, netting 37 goals in 41 appearances.
The Sun are reporting that he has emerged as a 'genuine back-up plan' for United after they missed out on Gyokeres, with Osimhen recently rejecting a hugely lucrative offer from Al-Hilal as he wants to remain in Europe.
Jean-Philippe Mateta
Crystal Palace star Jean-Philippe Mateta has also been linked with a move to Old Trafford after scoring 17 goals last season and helping his side lift the FA Cup.
Mateta would be a more affordable signing given his contract is due to expire in 2027 and French outlet L'Equipe have previously reported that United have 'already positioned themselves' to make a move for the 27-year-old. However, Palace are hoping to convince Mateta to sign a new deal.