It’s no secret that Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is prioritizing a striker in the January transfer window and has publicly admitted that his team are underpowered up front.
The initial plan after the summer splurge was to wait until next summer before embarking on the next part of the massive rebuild undertaken by the Dutchman.
But now, after the bitter departure of last season’s top scorer Cristiano Ronaldo, those plans have changed.
United on the hunt for a CR7 replacement
Prior to the World Cup, many of United’s mooted goals were purchasable due to their comparatively modest valuations.
However, that scenario has changed dramatically as all of their targets have enjoyed successful World Cup campaigns on a personal level, leading their clubs to increase their ratings.
According to Football Insider, “United are the only club to have held talks with PSV Eindhoven about signing Cody Gakpo as they continue to work on a January deal.”
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— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) December 8, 2022
They also reveal that United have an agreement in principle with the player and that they are in “regular contact” with his representatives.
The report mentions that the Red Devils tried to sign the 23-year-old in the summer and PSV turned down a £25m offer, which they had held out for £30m.
PSV valuation could deter United
After his three goals in the World Cup group stage, the striker may only have a chance to move if the Premier League giants raise their offer in the £45m range.
Gakpo’s club form has also been sensational, scoring 13 goals and 17 assists in 24 games across all competitions.
United’s finances are stretched at the moment and it remains to be seen if they can afford to match PSV’s asking price.
Club officials have already indicated that a striker may not arrive this winter, further reducing Ten Hag’s chances of finishing in the top four this season.
