Man Utd's striker targets revealed! Viktor Gyokeres set to miss out on Ruben Amorim reunion this summer with Red Devils eyeing alternative forwards including two Premier League stars

Gyokeres has been instrumental for Sporting this season and is widely expected to leave the Portuguese club after the current campaign. However, according to The Athletic, his preference is to join a Champions League club, which puts United at a disadvantage unless they secure qualification by winning the Europa League. Even then, other high-profile European clubs are expected to enter the race for his signature.

From United’s perspective, the financial aspect and age of Gyokeres - who turns 27 in June - also work against a potential deal. The club’s recruitment strategy under INEOS is focused on signing younger talents who can be developed into long-term assets rather than making expensive moves for players nearing their peak years.

The same report mentions that Liam Delap has also caught United's attention, who is enjoying a breakout season with Ipswich Town. The 22-year-old has registered nine goals and two assists in 23 Premier League appearances, demonstrating the type of high-intensity running and physical presence that Amorim values in a striker. Moreover, Delap’s connection to United’s technical director, Jason Wilcox, further strengthens the possibility of a move. Wilcox, who previously worked as Manchester City’s academy director, was involved in bringing Delap to the Etihad from Derby County in 2019. Should Ipswich face relegation, Delap’s asking price is expected to drop, making him a more realistic signing for United. However, competition for his signature will be fierce, with Chelsea also expressing interest in the young forward.

However, one potential stumbling block for United is Manchester City’s buyback clause in Delap’s contract. When Ipswich signed him last summer for a fee of £20 million, City inserted a £40 million buyback option, which they could exercise if they believe Delap is ready to return.

Another option under discussion is Brentford forward Bryan Mbeumo, who has been on United’s scouting radar. Representatives from the club were present to watch him during Brentford’s match against Tottenham on February 2, indicating serious interest. He is enjoying his most productive season to date, having scored 14 goals in 24 Premier League games. While he has often played as a right winger, he has occasionally featured as a centre-forward, delivering goals against top teams like Arsenal, Chelsea, West Ham, and Tottenham. However, the Bees hold a strong position in negotiations. Although Mbeumo’s contract officially expires in June 2026, the club has an option to extend it until 2027, meaning they are under no pressure to sell.

Another name on United’s radar is Benjamin Sesko, who has been monitored by the club for years. The 21-year-old forward was first considered as a potential signing in 2018 when United had an opportunity to sign him from Slovenian side Domzale for just €2 million. United also held talks over a transfer in 2022, during Erik ten Hag’s first summer window, but Sesko felt he was not yet ready for a move to Old Trafford. A second attempt was made last year, but he ultimately chose to extend his contract with RB Leipzig instead. Now, as United prepare for another summer rebuild, Sesko remains a viable option, but his valuation and strong interest from Arsenal could complicate matters.

While Gyokeres may have seemed like a natural fit under Amorim, financial factors and United’s long-term transfer strategy have made his signing unlikely. Instead, the club is exploring younger alternatives, with Delap, Mbeumo, and Sesko emerging as primary targets. However, competition from other clubs, financial constraints, and potential buyback clauses could make negotiations challenging.