"He’s a real footballer" - Rafael van der Vaart claims European star is a 'better version' of Manchester City man Erling Haaland
Former Netherlands international Rafael van der Vaart has claimed that Sporting striker Viktor Gyokeres is better than Manchester City star Erling Haaland. Dutch legend Marco van Basten has also echoed the thought, saying Gyokeres is a 'real footballer'.
Speaking on Ziggo Sport, Van de Vaart claimed that Gyokeres was a better version of Haaland. He admitted that the Manchester City star was an incredible player, but rated the Sporting CP sta higher. He said:
"It sounds a bit crazy, but I think he’s a bit of a better version of Haaland. Haaland is of course incredible, but Gyokeres has a bit more, or something."
Van Basten has also heaped praise on Gyokeres and stated that the striker made it look easy in front of the goal. He added that the Swede was composed while he was in attack and said:
"He’s a real footballer, I think. A real footballing striker. Strong, scores easily and is calm in front of goal. He is also able to pass the keeper, I think he’s a really good striker. I can enjoy him."
Viktor Gyokeres has been linked with a move to the Premier League. Chelsea, Arsenal, Manchester United, and Manchester City are said to be keeping tabs on the striker, who is in red-hot form.
Viktor Gyokeres not thinking about Manchester United and Manchester City move
Viktor Gyokeres has dismissed suggestions that he could be following Ruben Amorim to Manchester United. The striker has claimed that he is happy at Sporting CP and is not thinking of leaving. He said (via FourFourTwo):
“I’m here. I really like being here. It’s not something I think about. I’m enjoying it here. Of course, it’s not a normal situation but we won 5-1 and the team reacted very well. We are professionals and we have to continue like this. We are sad to see him leave. He is a great professional, he was fantastic for us, but we have to adapt.”
Dimitar Berbatov has urged Manchester United to sign the striker as it would help the incoming manager. He said (via FootBoom1):
"There seems to be a special connection with the coach, and because of that, we might just see him donning a United shirt soon. Given his current form, I can say a resounding yes. Our attackers are simply not delivering, and to be 18th in the league for goals is an utter disgrace for a club like Manchester United. Improvements in this area are crucial."
Manchester City are looking to bring in a striker amid reports that Erling Haaland is a target for Real Madrid. The Norwegian is also on PSG's radar while Barcelona are also keeping tabs on him (via GOAL).