Manchester United were heavily linked with PSV Eindhoven forward Cody Gakpo last summer but they eventually decided to sign Antony from Ajax for €100 million.
This has not stopped the speculation linking him with United and there are already suggestions that the club could return for Gakpo when the transfer window reopens.
It would be hard to turn down a player, who has 13 goals and 17 assists at club level this season, but here are three reasons why the Red Devils won’t sign Cody Gakpo in January.
Possible takeover
The Glazer family recently confirmed that they are exploring strategic alternatives which include new investment as well as a possible sale. This could have a direct impact on the club’s transfer plans for the January transfer window.
The owners may not want to spend much with a possible takeover around the corner. Hence, spending could be minimal this winter. The onus could be on pursuing a low-cost forward signing such as Barcelona’s Memphis Depay.
PSV’s asking price
PSV sporting director Marcel Brands recently confirmed that the club were looking for a €50m package for Gakpo in the summer and United did not make a bid. The Red Devils may probably regret the transfer decision.
Gakpo was superb for PSV last term with 36 goal contributions in 47 games, but his performances have gone to another level with 30 goal involvements in just 24 appearances this season. PSV are now bound to raise their demands.
The Eredivisie outfit could easily increase the price tag to €70-80m based on his progress. We simply don’t see the Red Devils making such a huge outlay in January after the huge €250m spending spree at the start of the season.
World Cup progress
Gakpo may be in sparkling form in the Eredivisie, but there is still a notable difference in quality when compared to the Premier League. The added physicality and intensity of English football has hampered several players arriving from the Dutch top-flight.
The World Cup in Qatar could play a key role on whether United make a move for him. Gakpo scored against Senegal for the Netherlands and needs to carry on performing at a high level or else United may not be convinced to spend big on him this winter.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
