Man Utd 'accelerate' pursuit of Gyokeres alternative

Cameron Smith

12 Jan 2025 12:00 CST
3 min read

Manchester United have reportedly joined the race to sign Sporting CP forward Conrad Harder amid concerns over their pursuit of Viktor Gyokeres.

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Ruben Amorim is eager to sign a new centre forward in 2025 and Harder has emerged as a new transfer target for the Red Devils following an eye-catching start to life at Sporting.

The 19-year-old moved to Lisbon from Nordsjaelland for a fee of €19 million in September and although he has been forced to play second fiddle to the aforementioned Gyokeres, Harder has still notched nine goals in 30 appearances across all competitions so far this season.

Chelsea have recently been linked with a move for the Denmark U21 international and Man Utd have now “accelerated” their pursuit of the teenager, according to Spanish outlet Fichajes.

Gyokeres remains a key target for the Old Trafford outfit, but Man Utd have reportedly identified Harder as an alternative to the Sweden star as they look to purchase a new number nine this year.

Victor Osimhen has also been extensively linked with a move to Man Utd in recent weeks, although Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea are set to compete for the Nigerian’s signature this summer, while Galatasaray want to make his loan move permanent.

© IMAGO - Man Utd are reportedly interested in Sporting CP forward Conrad Harder

Man Utd’s January transfer plans

Joshua Zirkzee and Marcus Rashford have both been heavily linked with a Man Utd exit during the January transfer window, and the Red Devils are now monitoring several different replacement options, including Harder.

Juventus are extremely interested in signing Zirkzee amid his struggles since moving to Old Trafford, while AC Milan are currently the frontrunners to win the race for Rashford’s signature this month.

In addition to a centre forward, Man Utd are also eager to acquire a new left wing-back during the January transfer window.

Nuno Mendes and Patrick Dorgu are both being pursued by Amorim’s side, although the latter is reportedly close to joining Napoli.