Cody Gakpo transfer twist and Man Utd ‘reason’ detailed as Erik ten Hag makes plea

Manchester United fans will be disappointed to see that one of their transfer targets, Cody Gakpo, has agreed to sign with Liverpool in January. However, there were reportedly doubts surrounding the player that caused United’s hierarchy to think twice.

Erik ten Hag has said that his team need to be ‘ruthless’ if they are to press on and achieve their goals this season. United defeated Nottingham Forest 3-0 on Tuesday and could the Red Devils be rediscovering their killer instinct?

Meanwhile, a player unbeknownst to the majority of United fans was inexplicably added to their squad list yesterday evening. Who is he and how did he end up on there?

United’s Gakpo doubts

Cody Gakpo has recently been snapped up by Liverpool, according to his current club, PSV Eindhoven. The news undoubtably sparked disappointment within the United fanbase, as the 23-year-old had been recently linked with a move to Old Trafford.

Despite this, speculation has emerged that United may have curbed their interest in the Dutch winger before the move was made. According to The Athletic, United were doubtful about Gakpo’s ability to play as a striker. Following Cristiano Ronaldo’s whirlwind exit, the Red Devils’ current priority is to replace him up top.

Ten Hag calls on United to be ‘more ruthless’

Erik ten Hag has called upon his side to be ‘more ruthless’ if they are to meet their targets this season. United comfortably swept Nottingham Forest aside on Tuesday evening in a 3-0 win, however, they also failed to convert numerous clear-cut chances.

Against teams such as Manchester City, Newcastle and Arsenal, goalscoring opportunities will be much harder to come by. In fixtures such as these, United will take the chances they get.

Who is Betinho?

United fans were surprised to see a new face in their squad list yesterday evening. Betinho, who has never played in the Premier League (let alone for Manchester United), was mysteriously among their player list last night on the Premier League’s official website. The reason given for this was a ‘techincal issue’, according to The Athletic. The strange addition could have been ‘a bit of mischief’.