Manchester United’s new sports director Dan Ashworth is in the spotlight for a decision that could return to haunt him. As the former technical director at Brighton, Ashworth approved the sale of Viktor Gyokeres to Coventry City for a nominal £1 million.
Fast forward to today, and Gyokeres has become one of Europe’s most exciting forwards, currently thriving at Sporting Lisbon. Now, as rumors swirl that Manchester United’s new manager Ruben Amorim might want to bring Gyokeres to Old Trafford, Ashworth’s decision to let the Swedish striker go so cheaply raises questions about missed opportunities and future costs.
Gyokeres’ Journey from Brighton to the Champions League
Viktor Gyokeres joined Brighton in 2017, but his opportunities with the team were limited. In four years, he made only eight appearances, leaving his potential largely untapped. In 2021, Brighton decided to sell him to Coventry City, with Ashworth signing off on the £1 million transfer. Although it seemed a sensible move at the time given his limited playtime, Gyokeres’ performances for Coventry soon raised eyebrows.
Gyokeres blossomed in the Sky Blues’ lineup, showcasing his prowess in front of the net and attracting the attention of European clubs. He netted 40 goals in three seasons with Coventry, setting the stage for a major leap in his career. In a record-breaking £16 million transfer, Sporting Lisbon acquired Gyokeres, a move that paid immediate dividends. His scoring instinct came alive at Sporting, where he delivered a staggering 43 goals in 50 matches, leading the team to a league title and marking him as a top talent in the Primeira Liga.
Viktor Gyokeres Steals the Spotlight with a Champions League Hat-Trick
The recent UEFA Champions League clash against Manchester City provided another platform for Gyokeres to shine. He netted a hat-trick that stunned City and powered Sporting to an unexpected 4-1 victory, underscoring his capabilities on Europe’s grandest stage. This electrifying performance has only intensified speculation around his future, with Manchester United now rumored to be considering him as a target.
The prospect of Gyokeres joining Manchester United became even more realistic with the appointment of Ruben Amorim, Sporting’s current manager, who is set to take the reins at Old Trafford on November 11. Amorim, heading into his final games with Sporting, could hardly contain his praise for Gyokeres’ contribution to his squad’s success. The growing connection between Amorim and United has fueled talk that the Portuguese coach might attempt to bring the prolific Swedish striker along with him.
Ashworth’s £1 Million Transfer Decision Revisited
Ashworth’s decision to part ways with Gyokeres for just £1 million back in 2021 is now under scrutiny, given the striker’s phenomenal rise. The contrast between the sale price Brighton received and Gyokeres’ current valuation – which is now upwards of £80 million – serves as a stark reminder of how player potential can sometimes go unnoticed.
For Manchester United, the situation is further complicated by Gyokeres’ contract. The forward reportedly has an exit clause exceeding £80 million at Sporting, though there is speculation of a gentleman’s agreement that could see him leave for around £60 million next summer. Ashworth, now tasked with overseeing United’s recruitment strategies, might face the possibility of paying significantly more to bring Gyokeres back to England.
Amorim and Ashworth: The Reunion That Could Shape United’s Attack
With Amorim’s arrival imminent, the 26-year-old Gyokeres could represent an enticing target for a summer acquisition. Amorim has publicly declared that he will not pursue any Sporting players during the January window, though the summer market remains open for discussions. Given Gyokeres’ seamless adaptation to Amorim’s system at Sporting, a reunion at Old Trafford could offer Manchester United an exciting boost to their attacking lineup.
Ashworth’s Track Record at Manchester United
Since joining Manchester United earlier this year after a brief tenure at Newcastle, Ashworth has already overseen several important signings, including young prospects like Leny Yoro and seasoned talents like Matthijs de Ligt. However, the Gyokeres situation underscores the challenges he may face in balancing immediate impact with long-term talent development, a task made more difficult by the pressures at a club of United’s stature.
As he reviews his previous decisions, Ashworth will undoubtedly have to weigh the implications of his earlier choices, particularly when it comes to young players with untapped potential. Gyokeres’ evolution from a low-profile Brighton reserve to a Champions League star offers a valuable case study on the impact of strategic player management.
A Costly Lesson on Player Potential?
As United contemplates potential transfers for the upcoming summer, Ashworth may well reflect on Gyokeres’ case as a lesson in identifying and nurturing talent. At £1 million, Brighton’s sale price for Gyokeres appears, in hindsight, to have undervalued the striker’s potential. But football, as always, has its share of unpredictable trajectories, and Ashworth’s experiences may ultimately help shape his approach at Old Trafford.
In a market where young talents can quickly appreciate in value, Ashworth’s decisions will be closely watched. Should United secure Gyokeres next summer, it may come with a premium that far exceeds what Brighton originally received. Regardless of the final transfer outcome, Gyokeres’ rise serves as a powerful reminder of the challenges that clubs face in accurately assessing talent – and the price that comes with underestimating it.
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Why did Dan Ashworth sell Gyokeres for only £1 million?
He had limited opportunities at Brighton, so the low transfer seemed reasonable then.
What has Gyokeres achieved since leaving Brighton?
He scored 40 goals at Coventry, leading to a £16 million move to Sporting, where he’s a star.
Is Manchester United interested in Gyokeres?
Yes, new manager Ruben Amorim may try to bring him to Old Trafford.
How much would United need to pay for Gyokeres?
ikely around £60 million, despite an £80 million release clause.
