Former Manchester United captain Rio Ferdinand has expressed skepticism regarding Viktor Gyokeres’ potential to thrive in the Premier League. Ferdinand, who has closely observed Gyokeres’ performances, stated, “I don’t think he’s the guy,” indicating his belief that Gyokeres may struggle to make a significant impact at top-flight clubs.
Gyokeres has made a remarkable mark at Sporting Lisbon, scoring an impressive 97 goals in just 102 appearances while also providing 26 assists. Last season, he averaged more than a goal per game, netting 54 goals in 52 matches, showcasing his striking prowess. This exceptional performance has attracted interest from several top clubs, including Manchester United, Arsenal, Juventus, and Al-Hilal.
Despite this interest, Sporting club president Frederico Varandas has confirmed that no formal offers have been made for Gyokeres and that the club is unwilling to entertain a rumored ‘gentleman’s agreement’ for a transfer fee of £59 million. Notably, Gyokeres has not only excelled in the Primeira Liga, scoring 39 goals this season, but also made a mark in the Champions League, netting six times, including a hat-trick against Manchester City.
Ferdinand has raised valid questions about Gyokeres’ adaptability to the Premier League. He pondered, “Is there enough – after he’s physically matched – to get him a goal?” This sentiment echoes concerns from analysts who question whether Gyokeres can replicate his Portuguese form in the demanding and fast-paced environment of English football.
The journey of Gyokeres from an unutilized player at Brighton to one of Europe’s leading scorers is inspiring, illustrating the power of determination and skill development. As clubs seek to bolster their attacking units for upcoming seasons, Gyokeres remains a significant figure in this summer’s transfer discussions, leaving fans and analysts alike eagerly anticipating his next career move.