Manchester United’s potential January target, Viktor Gyokeres, has revealed the two football icons who shaped his career aspirations: Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Cristiano Ronaldo. Currently plying his trade for Sporting CP, the Swedish striker has been a sensation in the Portuguese top flight, racking up an impressive 25 goals and four assists in just 22 games this season.

As Manchester United intensifies its search for a reliable No. 9, Gyokeres’ name has emerged as a prominent option. His lethal finishing, physical presence, and knack for being in the right place at the right time make him a compelling candidate to lead the Red Devils’ attack.

In a recent interview with UEFA.com, Gyokeres opened up about the inspiration he draws from Ibrahimovic and Ronaldo, two global icons known for their work ethic and ability to deliver on the biggest stages.

“The players I looked up to were Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Cristiano Ronaldo. It’s about how they performed on the pitch; they went the extra mile, which impressed me. I wanted to do similar things on the pitch,” said the 25-year-old.

Gyokeres also highlighted the three attributes that define his game: “In today’s football, you need to be physically strong, have a knack for scoring, as well as communicate and perform well with teammates. My three best qualities are my physique, finishing, and that I’m often in the right place to score.”

Opinion: A Perfect Fit for United?

Gyokeres’ profile reads like the description of what Manchester United desperately needs in their No. 9 position. With their current struggles in front of goal, his ability to consistently find the net would be a breath of fresh air for a team aiming to challenge for trophies.

His physicality and finishing prowess echo traits reminiscent of Ibrahimovic during his time at Old Trafford, while his movement and intelligence mirror Ronaldo’s instincts in the box. Add to that his impressive form in one of Europe’s competitive leagues, and it’s clear why United fans are excited by the rumors.

Yet, while Gyokeres’ goal-scoring numbers are undeniable, stepping up to the Premier League is no small task. United’s past experiences with high-profile strikers have taught fans that adaptation is key. If Gyokeres can maintain his sizzling form under the bright lights of Old Trafford, he could be the missing piece in Erik ten Hag’s puzzle.

As January approaches, one question lingers: will United make their move, and could Viktor Gyokeres be the next great striker to grace the Theatre of Dreams? Time will tell, but his idols would surely approve of the challenge.