### Manchester United Eyes Sporting Star
Manchester United is reportedly keen on Viktor Gyokeres, the Sporting Lisbon striker who recently showcased his talent on the international stage. According to The Sun, a scout from United was dispatched to observe Gyokeres during his performance for Sweden against Slovakia in the Nations League on Saturday. Gyokeres made an immediate impact during the match by scoring a goal in the third minute, following a well-placed through ball from Alexander Isak. His strike found the bottom corner of the net, leaving Slovakia’s goalkeeper Martin Dubravka helpless.
The scouting mission was led by Sergio Souza, one of Manchester United’s prominent talent spotters specializing in Scandinavian football. Souza made his presence known during the national anthems through an Instagram video, although it appears he was actively assessing Gyokeres’ potential well before the striker lit up the stadium with his goal. With Ryben Amorim managing Sporting Lisbon, there is speculation that Gyokeres may be on the expedite track to Old Trafford, following his manager’s footsteps.
### Chelsea Turns Attention to Liverpool’s Kelleher
Meanwhile, Chelsea has set its sights on acquiring Caoimhin Kelleher, the Liverpool goalkeeper, in a move that seems planned for the upcoming summer transfer window. According to reports from The Sun, Kelleher, who hails from the Republic of Ireland, may seek a fresh start after observing that his chances at Anfield might be limited—especially with the anticipated arrival of goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili, which could place Kelleher lower in the hierarchy of choice at Liverpool.
Kelleher has expressed his desire to avoid a future spent on the bench. He nearly transferred during the last summer window, with Nottingham Forest showing significant interest in him. However, Liverpool’s management faces a dilemma: while selling the goalkeeper would benefit Kelleher’s career, they do not wish to strengthen a potential rival for the title within the Premier League. Nonetheless, if Chelsea meets Liverpool’s valuation of £35 million, they could be left with no choice but to facilitate Kelleher’s departure.
### A More Modest Budget for Amorim at Manchester United
In another report by the Telegraph, it has been indicated that Ruben Amorim, the new head coach of Manchester United, will find himself operating under a more constrained financial framework compared to his predecessor, Erik ten Hag. Manchester United has set its aims higher, hoping that Amorim can effectively revitalize the current squad without the disruptive need for mass transfers each season.
United’s management believes that Amorim possesses the acumen necessary to balance cost-cutting measures with player retention, minimizing changes each transfer window. Cited as pivotal players in his plans are Denmark striker Rasmus Hojlund and England midfielder Mason Mount, both of whom are expected to flourish under Amorim’s guidance. Amorim will make his managerial debut against Ipswich Town, having recently taken charge of training.
Historically, United has averaged five new signings each summer over the past decade, a trend that has not yielded significant success despite the enormous funds expended—over £600 million under Ten Hag in just two and a half years. Moving forward, the club seeks a more sustainable operational approach, aiming to reduce player turnover while nurturing existing talent.
### Fulham and West Ham Pursue City’s McAtee
Lastly, the future of Manchester City’s midfielder James McAtee appears to be in flux, as both Fulham and West Ham are reportedly monitoring the situation closely. According to the Guardian, the 22-year-old has only made a single substitute appearance in the Premier League this season, which could motivate a transfer during the January window, especially as he searches for more consistent first-team football.
While McAtee had hoped to secure a spot in Pep Guardiola’s squad at the beginning of the season, opportunities dwindled, particularly amidst a series of injuries impacting other squad members. His limited appearances have come primarily in the Carabao Cup and a substitute appearance that resulted in a goal in the Champions League against Slovan Bratislava.
Despite his apparent stagnation, Manchester City remains optimistic about McAtee’s potential and has not ruled out extending his contract, which runs until the summer of 2026. With City’s history of selling talented homegrown prospects to adhere to Premier League regulations concerning profitability, the prospects are precarious. Furthermore, West Ham is currently assessing its managerial situation, which may influence its budget and approach during the critical January transfer window.
