Manchester United face a crucial summer transfer window aiming to significantly improve their performance next season after a disappointing campaign. The Red Devils finished a modest 15th in the Premier League, with Ruben Amorim taking charge in November following Erik ten Hag`s departure.
It appears the 40-year-old manager will have substantial funds available this summer to bolster the squad. He has already invested over £60m to sign Brazilian international Matheus Cunha, and a deal for Brentford`s Bryan Mbeumo is reportedly progressing well.
Further significant additions are expected at Old Trafford before the 2025/26 season, overseen by sporting director Jason Wilcox.
Latest on United`s Transfer Pursuits
Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Warren Zaire-Emery is one of the recent names linked, with talks reportedly underway for an £85m move for the teenage talent. West Ham United star Mohammed Kudus has also attracted interest, with United making an enquiry for the 24-year-old.
However, a new target has emerged in recent hours: Newcastle United`s key forward, Alexander Isak. According to Italian outlet Tutto Juve, United are closely monitoring the Swedish international, potentially planning a move after he scored 23 goals in 34 league appearances this season.
Chelsea and Arsenal are also said to be interested in the 25-year-old, but Newcastle are reportedly preparing a new contract to ward off potential suitors, valuing the player at around £150m.
Why the £150m Target Isak Could Be Better Than Gyokeres
Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres has been a long-term target, with interest surging since Amorim`s arrival, understandable given their successful collaboration in Portugal. Gyokeres had a phenomenal 2024/25 season, scoring a stunning 54 goals in 52 appearances, attracting attention from several English clubs.
Arsenal were seemingly leading the race for Gyokeres, but their focus appears to have shifted, bringing United back into the picture for the Sporting star. His reported £68m price tag is certainly appealing given his prolific record, but United should potentially look beyond Gyokeres and prioritize a move for Isak.
While Gyokeres outscored Isak this season, the Newcastle forward has proven his ability consistently in the demanding Premier League. His skillset suggests he would adapt instantly at Old Trafford.
Comparing their underlying statistics from the current season highlights why Isak might be the better option. The Newcastle attacker, described as “world-class” by journalist Thomas Hammond, showed greater clinical finishing with a higher goal per shot on target rate.
| How Isak compares to Gyokeres throughout the 2024/25 campaign | ||
|---|---|---|
| Statistics (per 90) | Isak | Gyokeres |
| Games played | 34 | 33 |
| Goals scored | 23 | 39 |
| Goals per shot on target | 0.5 | 0.4 |
| Pass accuracy | 75% | 71% |
| Progressive passes | 2.9 | 2.1 |
| Passes into final third | 1.2 | 0.5 |
| Take-on success | 46% | 45% |
| Carries into final third | 1.4 | 1.3 |
Isak also completed more passes overall and more passes into the final third per 90 minutes, indicating his ability to link up play and create for teammates. Furthermore, he completed more successful take-ons and carried the ball into the final third more frequently, demonstrating a capacity to generate opportunities independently rather than relying solely on service from others.
While the £150m fee for Isak would represent a club and English record, it could prove to be a worthwhile investment if he can replicate his Newcastle form at Old Trafford. Gyokeres may be the preferred choice for some fans this window, but based on his proven Premier League quality and superior underlying creative and ball-carrying stats, Isak appears to be the more suitable option for the Red Devils and Jason Wilcox as they aim to climb the table in 2025/26.
