Premier League icon Alan Shearer believes 'any player would be brave' to sign for Man Utd this summer and warns striker target Viktor Gyokeres against Old Trafford move

Gyokeres has become one of the most talked-about names ahead of the upcoming summer transfer window, following a phenomenal campaign in Lisbon. The Swedish striker has taken Portuguese football by storm since his switch from Coventry City, notching an extraordinary 95 goals in just 100 appearances for Sporting CP.

With widespread reports linking Gyokeres with a Premier League move under his former manager, Ruben Amorim, speculation is mounting that the striker could be on the verge of a blockbuster move. However, one of English football’s most respected voices is urging him to tread carefully.

Premier League legend Shearer has voiced concerns over a potential transfer to United for Gyokeres, warning that the club’s current state of instability could be a serious red flag for any incoming player. Speaking to Betfair, Shearer said: "They have to win the Europa League and I know that Ruben Amorim will have one or two contacts for the transfer market this summer. He coached Gyokeres, who will be chased in the summer by several clubs. It would be a brave move for him, or any other player, to go to Old Trafford if they're not in the Champions League."

Shearer stressed that United, in their present condition, fall well short of the standard expected of title challengers.

"They're a million miles off challenging for the Premier League, so that isn't going to happen next season. That's why it's so important - they're a very different proposition if they do get into the Champions League, because that will be able to attract players," he added.

"As a fan, you would worry about next season if they're not in the Champions League. It's just been a mess from top to bottom. This cup competition has turned into something huge for Man Utd, because they have to win it, as do Spurs. One of the two teams will be incredibly embarrassed by their season and God knows what will happen to the team that doesn't win. You can imagine the criticism that's going to come their way."

Shearer didn’t stop at player advice as he also tore into the broader mismanagement that has plagued the Red Devils in recent years.

"It's a really tough job and everything has been a mess," he said. "The communication, sackings of managers beforehand and ticket prices as well. Results in the Premier League have also been embarrassing. You can't say enough about the importance of this final for both Tottenham Hotspur and Man United."

As the speculation intensifies, so too does the financial dimension of Gyokeres' potential move. The striker is currently protected by a release clause reportedly worth €100 million (£85m/$112m), but sources now suggest the figure could be reduced to somewhere in the €70-75m (£59m-£63m/$78m-$84m) range. That lower valuation may attract more suitors, but United’s chances hinge heavily on Champions League qualification.