Manchester United are ready to return to the Eredivisie as they line up a move for PSV Eindhoven winger Cody Gakpo in their pursuit of a long-term addition to their frontline.
Erik ten Hag’s side plundered the Dutch league for talent over the summer, adding left back Tyrell Malacia as well as Ajax duo Lisandro Martinez and Antony to their side in a significant outlay, while they also failed in moves for Jurrien Timber and Gakpo.
On the latter, however, they have not given up. According to Forbes, “Manchester United remain interested in signing the Dutch international winger Cody Gakpo from PSV Eindhoven in the next twelve months.”
They considered him an Antony alternative last summer, and even got as far as agreeing personal terms, but eventually they landed their no.1 target and Gakpo was left in the Netherlands for another season.
PSV CEO Marcel Brands revealed just how close a deal was, telling the media “Cody had a difficult preparation with us because he has spoken with Manchester United. They didn’t come until mid-August and it didn’t go through.”
Gakpo was valued at 45m euros by the Dutch club last summer, but a brilliant start to the season and his inclusion in the World Cup squad could see that value increase significantly over the coming months.
So far this season, the 24-year-old has managed 8 goals and 6 assists in 7 Eredivisie outings, while he grabbed a goal and an assist in his two appearances over the international break for the Netherlands.
The Red Devils remain on the hunt for additions to their frontline, with Cristiano Ronaldo out of favour at present in Manchester and out of contract this summer, when it seems certain that he will depart.
Both Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial are inconsistent, while Antony scored on his debut but still has plenty to prove in the Premier League.
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