Man Utd may trigger £45m clause for "phenomenal" striker within a matter of hours

Manchester United could trigger the £45m release fee in the contract of a “phenomenal” striker on Tuesday evening as the clause runs out within a matter of hours.

Man Utd eyeing Gyokeres alternatives

With widespread reports suggesting that Viktor Gyokeres is closing in on a move to Arsenal, Man United have been forced to move on to alternative options, and contact has recently been made over both RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko and Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson.

Despite a deal for Gyokeres now looking very unlikely, there are several options on the shortlist for Ruben Amorim, many of whom were prolific in front of goal during the 2024-25 campaign.

Last week, it was also revealed that United had made an offer for Fiorentina striker Moise Kean, off the back of an impressive campaign for the former Everton man in the Serie A, but it was seemingly not high enough to tempt the Italian club into a sale.

However, Fiorentina would be powerless to prevent Kean’s departure if the Red Devils were to trigger his release clause, and a report from Italy (via Sport Witness) has revealed they could do exactly that before it expires within the next 12 hours.

Related

The new Rashford: Man Utd have now agreed deal to sign “unplayable” star

Man United are hoping to make a series of summer signings over the next few weeks.

The report states: “At this point, the situation is tightening. Kean never accepted Al-Qadsiah’s offer, nor did he comment on Al-Hilal’s interest, which had contacted his entourage in recent days. Manchester United’s prospect should not be underestimated, as the Red Devils could make a move for the 2000-born player during the final hours of his release clause.”

The centre-forward’s release clause amounts to €52m (£45m), but it expires on Tuesday at midnight, meaning United will need to move swiftly if they are keen on a deal for the Fiorentina star.

“Phenomenal” Kean may deserve another chance in England

The striker’s time at Everton didn’t go exactly to plan, scoring just two goals in 29 Premier League games during the 2019-20 season, but his performances in Italy last season indicate he could deserve another chance in England.

The Italy international bagged 25 goals for Fiorentina in all competitions, while also earning himself high praise from Italy legend Christian Vieri, who said: “We do have Kean and Retegui. They are two very good strikers. If they play together they are very dangerous. Kean is a phenomenal striker, a phenomenal centre forward.”

Perhaps the 25-year-old’s most memorable strike was his opening goal in his side’s 2-1 victory over Genoa in February, beating the goalkeeper with a remarkable effort on the spin.

That said, given that Kean’s last spell in the Premier League was way below par, it would be a surprise if Man United were to trigger his release clause before it expires on Tuesday evening.