According to reports in Portugal, Viktor Gyokeres has decided against a summer move to Manchester United, dealing a fresh blow to Ruben Amorim's plans to bring the Swedish striker to Old Trafford.
Amorim, appointed to lead Manchester United's rebuild, had hoped to reunite with his former Sporting frontman, but those hopes have now been dashed. Gyokeres is understood to have communicated his decision via his representatives, effectively ending the Mancunian's pursuit.
With the club reeling from a disastrous Premier League campaign and a Europa League final defeat to Tottenham, the Swede's reluctance to join a project in disarray is hardly surprising.
The lack of European football at Old Trafford next season has reportedly been a major factor in the player's decision. Gyokeres has opted to keep his options open — with Arsenal now emerging as frontrunners.
United had stepped up contact in recent days in an effort to push through a deal, but his attention has shifted. Arsenal, despite having an earlier bid turned down, remain interested and are expected to return with an improved offer as Mikel Arteta looks to bolster his attack.