Man Utd given major Cody Gakpo transfer hint amid ‘he will go’ expert claim

Manchester United continue to be linked with a late window deal to sign PSV Eindhoven winger Cody Gakpo.

The Red Devils have endured a difficult start to their Premier League campaign, losing their first two matches, and have faced similar disappointment in their pursuits of a number of targets over the course of the transfer window.

With just days to go before the market shuts, however, attentions at Old Trafford have turned to a possible swoop for Gakpo.

The Telegraph report that United “expect” to complete a £34 million deal for the 23-year-old, having met continued resistance in their attempts to sign Ajax forward Antony.

But what has Gakpo said about his future with PSV?

Here’s everything you need to know...

What has Gakpo said about his future?

Speaking earlier in the month, Gakpo suggested that his future with his boyhood could be dependant on whether or not they qualify for the Champions League this term.

PSV are currently embroiled in the qualification process for this year’s competition, and face a play-off second leg clash against Rangers on Wednesday evening, having already recorded a 2-2 draw at Ibrox last week.

Addressing persistent exit speculation earlier in the window in an interview with ESPN, Gakpo said: “We must first focus and try to make it to the Champions League.

“Then it is more likely that I will stay. I don’t think I have said anywhere that I am leaving, so there is definitely a chance that I will stay. I’m open for a cup of coffee with the management - or coffee for them and water for me.

“We’ll see how it goes.”

What else has been said about United’s interest in Gakpo?

Dutch football expert Marcel van der Kraan has claimed that Gakpo has what it takes to become the “top man at a big club”, as well as suggesting that he would be a good fit for Erik ten Hag’s preferred tactical approach.

Speaking to Sky Sports News, he said: “He [Gakpo] is the kind of player Erik ten Hag likes, because he likes to play with wingers.

“For every Dutch player who goes to play in England, it takes time to adapt. With that in mind, I’m a bit concerned because Gakpo is outstanding in the big Dutch matches and in Europe. But playing in and out, I’m a bit concerned.”

The pundit added: “I think eventually he will be the top man at a big club and I could see him featuring for Manchester United, but there are other top clubs in the bidding for wanting him.

“Arsenal made a bid for him weeks ago and there are around five Premier League clubs after Gakpo. But if the choice is there, he will go to Manchester United.

“PSV have made it very clear there is no way they will sell this boy until they are certain they will play in the Champions League.”

Since Van der Kraan’s comments, Arsenal’s interest in Gakpo appears to have cooled somewhat, with The Athletic reporting that the Gunners are now in talks over a potential deal for Wolves forward Pedro Neto.