PSV forward Cody Gakpo reveals how close he was to joining Man Utd this summer

The forward was linked with a move to Old Trafford during the summer transfer window, but a move didn’t materialise.
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Cody Gakpo has revealed he was close to joining Manchester United from PSV this summer after talking to Erik ten Hag. The Dutch forward was linked with a move to Old Trafford during the transfer window.

The 23-year-old has impressed for his club this season and has been one of Ruud van Nistelorooy’s standout performers in the Eredivisie and Europe. He has scored 13 goals in 18 appearances in all competitions for PSV and has registered 11 assists.

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United ended rumours of their pursuit for a winger this summer by signing Antony from Ajax for £86m. However, it was reported they were also working on bringing Gakpo to Old Trafford before the Brazilian’s arrival.

According to Sky Sports last month, the Red Devils weren’t the only club interested in signing Gakpo during the transfer window. They claimed Southampton’s bid for the Dutchman was rejected by PSV, while Leeds United also monitored his situation.

Speaking to the Times about a potential move from PSV to United, Gakpo revealed he spoke to Ten Hag regarding the switch to Manchester, but a deal wasn’t agreed. He said: “I was close to leaving, I spoke to Erik ten Hag a few times at Manchester United.

Gakpo has scored 13 goals in 19 games for PSV in all competitions this season. Credit: Getty. Gakpo has scored 13 goals in 19 games for PSV in all competitions this season. Credit: Getty.
Gakpo has scored 13 goals in 19 games for PSV in all competitions this season. Credit: Getty.

“In the end the deal didn’t go through, which was a shame, for me and my development, and because Manchester United is one of the biggest clubs in the world, but also for PSV, because to transfer a player to Manchester United is a good thing for the club.

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“It ended about a week before the end of the transfer window and in that week I had to decide if I would go to Leeds or Southampton. In the end I stayed, but it was a stressful period.”

PSV and United are both working toward qualification from their Europa League group stage, with the both clubs sat second in standings. Van Nistelrooy’s side face Arsenal in the competition on Thursday evening, while the Red Devils aren’t in European action until October 27 when they take on Sheriff at home.

The decision to remain in his homeland has so far paid off for the 23-year-old. However, he admitted the thought of playing in the Premier League in the future would be something he’d have to consider.

“I always said if I stay here, it’s my childhood club. It’s not a punishment,’ Gakpo added. “I like being here, I want to win trophies here and do my best for the club.

“But if I got the chance to go to the Premier League or something, of course I would have to consider that option. At that time it was hectic for me but I recovered pretty quickly.”