PSV Eindhoven are holding out for a good offer for Cody Gakpo amid the transfer interest from Manchester United, Dutch outlet Eindhovens Dagblad claim.
The Red Devils are eager to bring in a new wide player before the transfer deadline and Gakpo is one of those under the radar of manager Erik ten Hag.
Ajax’s Antony has been the top target for the Dutch tactician, but a deal seems unlikely at the moment after their latest offer of €80 million was rejected.
The Eredivisie champions seem determined to keep him beyond the summer, and it is unclear whether United will follow up with another significant bid.
Gakpo has been mentioned as an alternative for a while, but Eindhovens Dagblad insist that PSV won’t let him go for cheap before the transfer deadline.
The Dutch outfit will only sell the 23-year-old after their Champions League fate is sealed. They play Rangers in the play-off second leg on Wednesday.
Meanwhile, the club will not settle for less than €45-50m plus bonuses to part ways with Gakpo.
Gakpo would represent better value for money over Antony
Antony has been Ten Hag’s priority target to bolster the attack, but a deal is proving expensive.
The Red Devils could have signed the Brazil international for around €60m in early June, but their reluctance to enter negotiations has driven the asking price up.
De Telegraaf’s Mike Verweij revealed last month that Ajax have increased the price tag from €80m to €100m, and that appears the fact after United’s latest setback.
We can’t entirely rule out the hierarchy from meeting the valuation, but Gakpo would represent far better value for money at €50m. He has also fared better in Eredivisie.
Comparing the two, Antony is a specialist right-winger while Gakpo is dominant on the left flank. However, the latter can also operate on the right wing or up front.
His versatility is a definite plus for the Red Devils. Personal terms should not prove a concern.
Gakpo is currently represented by Sports Entertainment Group. Ten Hag is also under the same agency and a deal could be straightforward once a transfer fee is negotiated.
Ideally, United could secure the services of Gakpo before the transfer deadline and wait until next summer to prise away Antony for a lesser fee from the Amsterdam club.
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