Manchester City is set to compete with Manchester United for the signing of Viktor Gyokeres, according to reports.
**”We Will Suffer for a Long Period” – Amorim Reflects on Man Utd Debut Ending in Draw**
Ruben Amorim’s tenure at Manchester United began with a frustrating draw, leaving the new manager to ponder the challenges ahead. Following the match, Amorim candidly remarked, “We will suffer for a long period,” highlighting the difficulties he anticipates as he seeks to turn the club’s fortunes around.
In the midst of this transitional phase, United are reportedly eyeing Viktor Gyokeres, a striker currently making waves at Sporting Lisbon. However, they face stiff competition from local rivals Manchester City for the 26-year-old’s signature. According to The Sun, Gyokeres has emerged as a hot property under Amorim’s guidance, and his release clause is set at a hefty £65 million.
The report suggests that Amorim’s connection to Gyokeres could play a pivotal role in United’s pursuit. However, with City’s Hugo Viana poised to take over as their director of football, the battle for the striker’s services is far from over.
**United’s Interest in Quenda Grows**
Meanwhile, Manchester United have been keeping a close eye on another Sporting Lisbon talent, 17-year-old Geovany Quenda. The winger has reportedly caught the attention of United’s scouting team, particularly since Amorim’s appointment as manager.
The Telegraph notes that Quenda was given his senior debut by Amorim, who has a history of nurturing young talent. United’s interest in the teenager has intensified, with scouts having monitored his progress even before the managerial change. This aligns with the club’s recent strategy of investing in promising young players rather than established stars, marking a shift from their previous approach that saw them sign high-profile names like Cristiano Ronaldo and Casemiro.
**Mendes Among United’s Left-Back Targets**
In addition to Gyokeres and Quenda, Manchester United are also reportedly considering Paris Saint-Germain’s Nuno Mendes as a potential left-back signing. The Daily Mail has indicated that Amorim’s side is keen to bolster their defensive options, particularly with Tyrell Malacia struggling to find form after a lengthy injury layoff and Luke Shaw’s fitness issues persisting.
Mendes has emerged as a viable option, but United are also exploring other targets, including Bayern Munich’s Alphonso Davies and Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez. However, financial fair play regulations may complicate their plans come January, especially as they weigh their priorities between securing a striker and a centre-back.
The club’s ongoing injury woes have only added to the urgency of their situation, with interest in Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite remaining strong. Yet, at a price tag of £70 million, acquiring the young defender in the winter window could prove challenging unless United can offload some fringe players in a tight market.
As the January transfer window approaches, it remains to be seen how United will navigate these challenges and whether Amorim can instill the necessary changes to steer the club back to success.