The Swede made the move to Portugal back in the summer and has hit the ground running in the capital. Gyokeres has scored on 17 occasions for Sporting, who sit top of the table at the midway point of the season. United’s forward line has struggled to consistently produce and, as a result, reinforcements are being sought.

Sporting have been clear that they won’t be letting the striker go for less than his £89million release clause. That is £69m more than they spent to sign him just months ago. Gyokeres was plying his trade at Coventry City in the Championship before the Portuguese side came knocking.

That price now looks a steal but it begs the question – why did no Premier League side move for him? United’s scouts had a player playing just 103 miles from Old Trafford, but could now have to spend almost four times what he would’ve cost in the summer to land him.

It wouldn’t be the first time United have turned their nose up at a player, only to see him perform at a major name, and then move for him. Antony cost the club £86m 18 months ago as they signed him from Ajax. Back during Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s tenure though the club had the opportunity to sign him for just £25m, but opted against.

Their marquee signing this summer, Rasmus Hojlund, began making his name at Copenhagen and Sturm Graz before Atalanta came knocking. It was his exploits in Serie A that saw Ten Hag spend more than £70m on the young Dane, who could’ve been captured for a minimal amount years earlier.

Viktor Gyokeres has been in excellent form for Sporting Lisbon ( Image: Henrique Casinhas/Getty Images)

It is also well documented that United opted against a move for a young Erling Haaland. He was available for just £4m when he came through the ranks at Molde but is now a treble winner with Manchester City and among the hottest properties in world football.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Ineos have made it one of their priorities to address the club’s recruitment and scouting processes. Ten Hag, like many before him, has a real hit and miss record in the market thus far. Several of his signings have failed to deliver, which is already casting doubt over their futures at Old Trafford.