Viktor Gyokeres rejects Man Utd: Sporting striker snubs Ruben Amorim reunion in boost to Arsenal's transfer pursuit

The United hierarchy had placed Gyokeres near the top of their wishlist as they attempt to back Amorim with familiar and proven talent. The 26-year-old striker, who has exploded onto the European stage with remarkable back-to-back scoring campaigns in Lisbon, netting 43 goals in his first season followed by an even more prolific 57 in the second, was viewed as the ideal centrepiece for United's attacking rebuild.

However, Portuguese outlet Record revealed that despite holding several conversations with the player's representatives over the past week, United have been unable to convince Gyokeres or his camp. Concerns over United’s failure to qualify for next season’s Champions League, combined with uncertainty surrounding the club's new sporting project under Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s guidance, appear to have been key factors in the decision to turn away from Old Trafford.

The report further claimed that Gyokeres' representatives never considered United to be a serious option and have instead been focused on securing a move to north London. According to those close to the player, the Emirates has always been the player's preferred destination, and Arsenal's renewed interest in the striker has made a significant impact.

Sporting reportedly rejected Arsenal's initial approach, which included a €55 million (£47m/$63.5m) base fee with an additional €10m (£8.5m/$11.5m) in performance-related add-ons. However, the Gunners are expected to return with an improved bid that could come closer to the Portuguese club's asking price, believed to exceed €80m (£68m/$92m).

There is also a growing sense among observers that Gyokeres' camp may be employing a tactical approach to negotiations. By clearly distancing their client from United, they could be attempting to pressure Sporting into accepting a previously-discussed fee of €60m (£51m/$70m) plus €10m in bonuses.

Despite Arsenal's increasing focus on Gyokeres, the club remains engaged in parallel discussions with RB Leipzig over Benjamin Sesko. Sources suggest that Mikel Arteta continues to view Sesko as his top-choice striker for the upcoming season. Should those negotiations advance, it could potentially alter Arsenal's plans regarding Gyokeres. This might put the Swedish striker in a spot of bother.