Reputed journalist Gianluca Di Marzio believes Manchester United are a realistic destination for PSV Eindhoven star Cody Gakpo during the January transfer window.
The Red Devils were hot on the trail of the Dutchman over the summer and it was initially suggested that they could sign him as well as Antony before the transfer deadline.
However, the scenario completely changed during the final days of the transfer window. The huge outlay on Antony meant that it was no longer feasible to sign Gakpo.
Gakpo has since confirmed that he was expecting to join United and it remains to be seen whether the club return for him when the transfer window reopens in January.
In an exclusive interview with Wettfreunde, Di Marzio has now said that Gakpo is a very good player and he would have no concerns adapting to the intensity of English football.
When pressed on potential suitors for his services, the reputed journalist added that United, Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal are the right projects for a quality player like him.
He said: “I know him very well. He’s a very, very good player. When you play in the Eredivisie with PSV and Ajax, you obviously learn intensity and quality, so the Premier League is the right move for players like him. I think Manchester United, Arsenal or Tottenham.”
“It depends on what PSV want for him. I think Manchester United or Arsenal, or Tottenham, for that matter, are the right projects for a quality and intense player like him.
“Of course, it’s still too early to say if there is a deal or if the clubs are talking to each other. We are in October, and there is also a World Cup, so all transfers will be postponed. Each club will wait until the World Cup and see what happens.”
United must pursue Cody Gakpo’s services this winter
United spent a hefty €100 million to prise away Antony from Ajax over the summer. The Brazilian has already made a good impression, scoring in three of his four Premier League appearances. He has definitely cemented his position on the right wing.
The next part of the rebuild should be to bolster the left-wing department as well as the centre-forward role. Gakpo would be an ideal fit for both. The Netherlands star has been in spectacular form this campaign with 13 goals and 11 assists from just 18 games for PSV.
The 23-year-old has exclusively played from the left side of the attack since the start of last season, but he is more than capable of leading the line. In his 18 appearances as a striker, he has registered eight goals and two assists. Gakpo is pretty versatile when compared to Antony.
PSV are unlikely to negotiate with any club until the end of the World Cup. Gakpo is certain to travel with the Netherlands for the major showpiece in Qatar and a strong showing could further boost his reputation and transfer valuation ahead of the New Year.
It won’t be a surprise if PSV stick for a much higher price tag than the €50 million fee set last summer. Regardless of this, United must look to land his services this winter or they could end up regretting. One of Spurs or Arsenal could pounce on his signature otherwise.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
