Cody Gakpo to Man Utd has clicked into gear with his World Cup heroics emboldening the club’s decision-makers to act, and TEAMtalk has learned how difficult Liverpool will make life for the Red Devils.
The Dutch forward, 23, has quickly emerged as Manchester United’s primary target to replace Cristiano Ronaldo in January.
Gakpo was on the club’s radar over the summer, though Erik ten Hag prioritised forging a reunion with Antony instead.
That put a move for Gakpo on the backburner for six months at least. Since that time, Gakpo has notched more than a goal contribution per game with PSV Eindhoven (30 in 24 across all competitions).
He’s also among a cluster of players joint-top scoring at the World Cup in Qatar. His three goals for the Netherlands have helped Louis van Gaal’s side progress to the quarter finals and Gakpo has primarily played up front.
His exploits for club and country have sparked fears his price tag has swelled. Indeed, Gakpo could’ve been signed for £35m last summer, though a fee around or in excess of £50m is likely to be required.
That shouldn’t pose a problem to Man Utd though, with the Sun reporting Man Utd are ready to make their move next month.
They claimed PSV want at least £50m and are fully aware Gakpo’s value is as high right now as it may ever be. Aside from the two clubs’ willingness to strike an agreement, Gakpo is also labelled ‘keen’ to switch sides.
Cody Gakpo interest not limited to United
Leeds Utd were among many who explored a move for Gakpo last summer. Arsenal too were linked and have recently been rocked by an injury to Gabriel Jesus.
Liverpool are another in the mix, with Jurgen Klopp’s assistant, Pep Lijnders, reportedly ‘charmed’ by his fellow Dutchman.
However, our own transfer insider, Graeme Bailey, has lifted the lid on the extent of Liverpool’s interest and it makes great reading for Man Utd fans.
Bailey explained Gakpo’s form in Qatar has cemented United’s belief Gakpo is worthy of their investment. Furthermore, Gakpo and Ten Hag share the same agency.
On the Liverpool front, Bailey revealed that despite their interest, there’s “no indication that they will launch a rival bid”.
Gakpo to Man Utd signs are promising
“Cody Gakpo has been so good in Qatar, very good – arguably the star of the tournament so far,” said Bailey. “He has really showed what he can do, in many positions, including as a central forward.
“Many doubted that once Cristiano Ronaldo left that Gakpo could replace him, but we have seen that he actually represents a very good fit to what United are looking for, and it is easy to see why Erik ten Hag is so keen on him.
“Gakpo is a player that Ten Hag knows well from his time in the Netherlands and is represented by the same agency.
“He was one of the first names picked out to United when he took charge, but they had other moves they wanted to make first (Antony).
“Now, I am told United’s hierarchy have been very impressed with Gakpo in Qatar and his performances have cemented their belief that he is right for them.
“I fully expect United to push ahead with a move in the New Year, but such is his continuing progress we know that others are looking.
“Liverpool have been linked, but as it stands, there’s no indication that they will launch a rival bid.”
