During the summer transfer window, there was an expectation that Manchester United would spend heavily under new manager Erik ten Hag in a bid to return to the Champions League as soon as possible.
The Red Devils were linked with so many players over the summer that at one point it became difficult to keep track of the names. Some were realistic goals, while others were just wishful thinking.
Among the players who came close to realizing his dream of playing at Old Trafford was Cody Gakpo. The striker was linked with a £38m deal for the Dutch international.
Gakpo’s exploits so far
Because United ended up overpaying for Antony’s move from Ajax, Gakpo’s deal did not materialize. However, the 23-year-old hasn’t let that stop him from making an even bigger impact this season.
Cody Gakpo: “I was close to leaving PSV. I spoke a couple of times with Erik ten Hag at Manchester United, in the end the deal didn’t materialize… and it was a shame,” says The Times. ???????? #MUFC @TomAllnutt_
“Manchester United is one of the biggest clubs in the world.” pic.twitter.com/M81STcAdb6
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) October 19, 2022
Last season, the PSV winger registered 21 goals and 15 assists in 47 games between all competitions last season.
In just 20 games so far this season, the 23-year-old already has 13 goals to his name along with 13 other assists in all competitions. Numbers that even Erling Haaland would be proud of.
His clinical nature in front of goal is exactly what United are crying out for at the moment. Marcus Rashford continues to be plagued by inconsistencies, while Anthony Martial’s injury woes just can’t seem to go away.
Add to this Jadon Sancho’s poor form and Cristiano Ronaldo’s desire to leave in January, and a move for the Dutch star makes even more sense.
Gakpo’s exploits this season have attracted the interest of European heavyweights like Real Madrid and Arsenal. Earlier, there were talks between the player’s entourage and Leeds United and Southampton.
Can United get a deal with Gakpo over the line?
But as transfer guru Fabrizio Romano pointed out, Gakpo is ready for a much bigger move. Speaking on his ‘Here We Go’ podcast, he said: “Now what’s the situation? That Leeds is still waiting for Cody Gakpo.
“Southampton has been there for a long time. But from what I’m told now, Cody Gakpo’s status has completely, completely changed.
“So I think it’s going to be very difficult for Leeds and Southampton to go after Cody Gakpo and now there are big clubs following him, not just in the Premier League.”
Arsenal were also monitoring Gakpo’s situation, but according to GIVEMESPORT, the Red Devils are “more likely” to sign the striker from PSV with Gakpo sure to push for a departure next year following his incredible start to the season.
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