Viktor Gyokeres Unlikely to Join Manchester United
Despite recent speculation, Manchester United fans may need to temper their hopes of signing Viktor Gyokeres this summer. According to The Athletic, the Sweden international is prioritising a move to a Champions League club. While United could still secure a spot through Europa League triumph, they are far from favourites at this stage. With Gyokeres seemingly out of reach, INEOS chiefs are exploring other attacking options to strengthen Ruben Amorim’s squad. The stagnation of Joshua Zirkzee and Rasmus Hojlund, who have yet to score in the Premier League this year, has heightened the need for reinforcements. Laurie Whitwell suggests that a ‘more plausible target’ could be Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap.
Delap, who joined Ipswich from Manchester City for £20 million last summer, could be available for £40 million due to a buyback clause in his exit terms. His valuation may depend on Ipswich’s Premier League status at the end of the season. Currently sitting 19th, the Championship side may struggle to retain their 22-year-old talent. A U21 England international, Delap has even drawn comparisons to Harry Kane from pundit Danny Murphy.
Mbeumo on United’s Radar
In addition to Delap, United scouts have been keeping a close eye on Bryan Mbeumo. The Brentford forward was most recently observed during his side’s defeat to Tottenham Hotspur in early February. Mbeumo is not a traditional No.9, as he often features on the right wing. However, he has occasionally been utilised in a central role, albeit typically alongside another forward. His versatility could provide United with a flexible attacking option if other targets prove unattainable.
Barcelona’s Rashford Interest Confirmed
Before his recent move to Aston Villa, Marcus Rashford attracted interest from several top European clubs. His prolonged exile at Old Trafford caught the attention of AC Milan, Borussia Dortmund, and notably Barcelona, which was reportedly his preferred destination. The Catalan giants, however, were unable to make room on their wage bill for Rashford due to their ongoing financial constraints. With few solid offers in the closing stages of the transfer window, Rashford chose to join Villa instead. Rashford debuted as a substitute in Villa’s 2-1 FA Cup win over Tottenham Hotspur last Sunday. Despite the club having an option to buy him at the end of the season, reports suggest that his heart may still be set on a move to Barcelona.
Barcelona’s Sporting Director, Deco, confirmed that Rashford was on their shortlist before the transfer fell through. However, he noted that the forward was not a priority, stating the club “weren’t desperate for a signing.” With Barcelona’s financial situation remaining delicate, it is unclear whether a summer move for Rashford will be feasible. The club’s precarious position nearly saw signings Dani Olmo and Pau Victor released earlier this season due to La Liga’s wage cap restrictions. Provisional registration was eventually granted, but the Spanish National Sports Council (CSD) has yet to make a final decision.
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