Manchester City is reportedly already making moves to secure the services of Viktor Gyokeres, one of Europe’s most prolific strikers, amid rising concerns about Erling Haaland’s potential departure. Real Madrid’s interest in Haaland has intensified, with the Spanish giants eyeing a 2025/26 season transfer. City, aiming to prepare for a possible change at the top of their attack, is considering Gyokeres as a replacement, viewing the Swedish international as a more affordable yet equally promising option.
### **Gyokeres’ Meteoric Rise in European Football**
Viktor Gyokeres has emerged as one of Europe’s hottest prospects, earning a reputation as one of the continent’s most reliable and dynamic goalscorers. In the past two seasons, Gyokeres has netted an impressive 56 goals, and he has already added more to his tally in the current season with 13 goals in just a few months. His consistent performances have not only made him a target for several top European clubs but have positioned him as one of the best forwards in the game today.
The 26-year-old Swedish striker currently plies his trade at Sporting CP, where his attacking prowess has turned heads across Europe. Gyokeres’ clinical finishing, agility, and strength make him a formidable presence on the field. It is no surprise that his name has been linked with a move to some of Europe’s elite clubs, but Manchester City appears to be in the driver’s seat in the race to secure his signature.
### **Erling Haaland’s Uncertain Future at Manchester City**
Manchester City’s interest in Gyokeres comes amid growing speculation that their current star striker, Erling Haaland, may not be with the club much longer. Reports from **Sky Sport Switzerland** suggest that Real Madrid has set its sights on Haaland, aiming to bring him to Spain in time for the 2025/26 season. Haaland, who has been nothing short of sensational since joining City, is said to have a strong desire to make the move to the Santiago Bernabéu, with his eyes set on joining one of Europe’s most storied clubs.
Complicating matters for Manchester City is Haaland’s €150 million (£125 million) release clause, which becomes active soon. This clause is seen as a golden opportunity for Real Madrid, making it easier for them to lure the Norwegian star to La Liga. Given Haaland’s stellar goal-scoring record and his status as one of the best strikers in the world, City will need a strong replacement if he decides to leave.
### **Manchester City’s Contingency Plan: Securing Gyokeres**
In response to the potential departure of Haaland, Manchester City has reportedly moved swiftly to initiate contact with Viktor Gyokeres’ representatives. Gyokeres is seen as a priority target for the club, and negotiations are believed to be well underway. City’s Director of Football, Hugo Viana, who recently joined the club from Sporting CP, is leading the charge to bring the Swedish striker to Manchester. Viana’s familiarity with both Gyokeres and his current club could play a pivotal role in sealing the deal.
The potential signing of Gyokeres would come at a considerably lower cost compared to the astronomical figures associated with Haaland. It is estimated that Gyokeres could be available for around €100 million (£83 million), a figure that aligns with City’s budgetary preferences while still securing a high-caliber striker. Despite being cheaper, Gyokeres has demonstrated that he has the skill set to compete at the highest level, making him a potentially shrewd acquisition for the reigning Premier League champions.
### **Gyokeres and Ruben Amorim: A Possible Reunion at City?**
Another intriguing storyline emerging from Manchester City’s pursuit of Gyokeres is the potential reunion between the striker and his current manager at Sporting CP, Ruben Amorim. Amorim, who has been pivotal in Gyokeres’ development, is rumored to be a leading candidate to replace Pep Guardiola as Manchester City’s manager when the Spaniard’s contract expires at the end of the current season. If Amorim does make the move to the Etihad Stadium, it could increase the likelihood of Gyokeres joining him, given the strong bond the two share and the striker’s success under his guidance.
Hugo Viana, who was instrumental in bringing Amorim to Sporting, is said to be exploring this option as a way to ensure continuity and success for City in the post-Guardiola era. The partnership between Amorim and Gyokeres has been highly productive, with the Swedish striker flourishing under the Portuguese manager’s tactical system. Bringing both to Manchester could represent a seamless transition and maintain City’s attacking prowess.
### **Manchester City’s Broader Transfer Strategy: La Liga in Focus**
While the situation surrounding Haaland and Gyokeres takes center stage, Manchester City’s transfer strategy appears to be broader, with an eye towards strengthening other areas of the squad. The club is reportedly targeting key talents from La Liga, a move that could see some high-profile arrivals at the Etihad.
One name linked with City is **Arda Güler**, the young Turkish sensation currently at Real Madrid. With uncertainty around Kevin De Bruyne’s future due to injuries and age, Güler is seen as a potential successor to the Belgian midfielder’s creative role. Additionally, City has expressed interest in **Raphinha**, the Brazilian winger from Barcelona, who has caught the eye with his impressive performances in the Champions League this season. A transfer fee of around £83 million has been suggested for Raphinha, underscoring City’s intent to add more attacking depth.
However, City may face competition for another promising talent, **Andrija Maksimovic**, currently starring at Red Star Belgrade. While Manchester City has shown interest, reports indicate that Brighton & Hove Albion could be a more attractive destination for the young Serbian, highlighting the fierce competition for emerging European talents.
### **Gyokeres vs. Haaland: A Comparison of Styles**
If Manchester City does proceed with the signing of Viktor Gyokeres, it will undoubtedly invite comparisons to the potential departure of Erling Haaland. The two strikers, while both prolific, bring different attributes to the table. Haaland is known for his explosive speed, incredible physicality, and clinical finishing inside the box. His presence alone forces defenses to adjust, often creating space for his teammates.
Gyokeres, on the other hand, offers a more versatile approach. While he possesses the physical attributes necessary for a top striker, he also has excellent technical skills and is adept at linking up play. His ability to drop deep, assist teammates, and create goal-scoring opportunities makes him a well-rounded forward who could fit seamlessly into City’s tactical setup.
### **Conclusion: City’s Strategic Moves Amid Uncertain Times**
As Manchester City prepares for the possibility of a major transition, the pursuit of Viktor Gyokeres signals a proactive approach to safeguarding their future. Real Madrid’s interest in Haaland has raised alarms, but City’s quick action to target Gyokeres and their broader transfer strategy shows a club that is not willing to stand still. The potential additions of Gyokeres and possibly Ruben Amorim could usher in a new era at the Etihad, ensuring that the club remains a dominant force in both domestic and European competitions. As the 2024/25 season unfolds, all eyes will be on Manchester City’s transfer dealings and the future of Erling Haaland.