If a report from Sky Sports is believed to be true, Manchester United are weighing up a summer swoop for Cody Gakpo. But they are not alone in the hunt, with Premier League rivals Arsenal and Nottingham Forest holding a long-term interest in the PSV Eindhoven winger. While the Red Devils are yet to submit an offer for the £35m-rated attacker, the ongoing crisis high up the pitch could see them stepping up the chase in due course of time.
Meanwhile, the 23-year-old Netherlands international opened up on his future following a sensational victory against Monaco in the Champions League qualifiers.
“We must first focus on and try to make it to the Champions League. Then it is more likely that I will stay. I don’t think I have said anywhere that I am leaving, so there is definitely a chance that I will stay.”
Gakpo told ESPN (as claimed by The Independent) as he is concentrating on the upcoming playoff contest against the Glasgow Rangers.
United, on the other hand, have failed to lure in Frenkie de Jong in the absence of Champions League football. They also endured a dreadful defeat against Brighton & Hove Albion in the opening gameweek and the new chief Erik ten Hag must accelerate the process of reconstruction in order to avoid another shambolic season similar to the previous campaign.
Why Manchester United Should Secure His Services
The Dutchman has roped in names whom he has either managed or monitored closely during his tenure in the Eredivisie. The former Ajax boss has tied down Lisandro Martinez and Tyrell Malacia who made significant strides in Dutch football, but the necessity of attacking reinforcements has moved to the forefront after a lacklustre display versus the Seagulls.
Gakpo progressed through the academy ranks of PSV before breaking into their senior side back in 2018. He made steady progress in the first-team setup and eventually secured a regular role within a year. The youngster fired in 21 goals and laid on 15 more last season in 46 appearances across competitions and has carried his form so far this term with three goals and two assists in 4 fixtures.
Predominantly a left-winger, the attacking ace has also showcased his flexibility across the frontline. Manchester United need such versatility upfront, particularly after Cristiano Ronaldo’s reluctance to feature in the Europa League. Edinson Cavani and Jesse Lingard have left this summer upon the expiration of their Old Trafford contracts, whereas none of Marcus Rashford, Anthony Martial and Jadon Sancho has done enough in terms of anchoring the attack. It remains to be seen, though, whether the Red Devils manage to strike a deal before the window is slammed shut.
