Cody Gakpo has been refreshingly open about his future amid his terrific form this season. The Netherlands attacker, who has 13 goals and 17 assists for PSV this season, scored in every group game for his country at the World Cup.
He had held talks with Erik ten Hag over a potential switch to Manchester United over the summer before the Reds boss opted to splash £85m on Ajax winger Antony.
The player has spoken many times about the possible switch both before and after deadline day and two things remain clear throughout: he has the utmost respect for PSV, and his admiration for United is evident.
READ MORE: PSV Eindhoven hint at Cody Gakpo exit
After the transfer window closed, the 23-year-old became more open about his transfer dealings but as the January market approaches, he has seemed to stay more placid on his future albeit is still willing to talk about his failed summer move.
Here is everything Gakpo has said about his future from when he first spoke about a potential move to United.
Before summer deadline day:
August 28 - ESPN
"There are also other options, United are a serious option. I can hear it all. I try to shut myself off from it, but it's difficult. Fun for [Antony to earn United transfer from Ajax], but for me and my future, I think that has no influence.
"It's like a puzzle so in the next few days I will see which puzzle fits best. For me, it'd certainly not be bad to stay at PSV. We'll see."
After deadline day:
October 19 - The Times
“I have indeed spoken to Ten Hag several times. In the end, the deal fell through and that was a real shame for my development, because Manchester United is one of the biggest clubs in the world.
“But it was also disappointing for PSV, because seeing a player leave for such a club is also something beautiful for them. Talks with Manchester United broke down a week before the end of the transfer window.
“So in that week I still had to decide whether I wanted to go to Southampton or to Leeds United. In the end I chose to stay with PSV, but it was a stressful period for me.
“It’s not a punishment to play here, it’s been my club since childhood. I want to win trophies and do my very best for PSV. But if you get the chance to go to the Premier League, of course you consider it. Fortunately, I quickly came back from that hectic period.”
November 12 - NOS
“I think at the end of this season I will be ready to take that step. I feel like I was already that way at the start of this season, but after this season I'm even more ready to take that next step.
"[On which clubs he would like to join] Real Madrid, FC Barcelona, Manchester United, Manchester City and Liverpool. It would be an honour to play there, but I also have to see what kind of team would suit me best."
November 28 - World Cup press conference
"I focus on the World Cup but it's always nice to hear such rumours. But, you know, I just try to focus here and do my best. I'm not surprised [by the rumours].
“I know what I'm capable of, but it's always a challenge to reach your highest level possible. I think I can improve a lot of things."
December 3 - The Athletic
"I have to be honest, I am not thinking about that [a transfer] now. I am focused on the tournament and want to keep performing well, to keep helping the team.”
December 7 - NRC
“I thought about Manchester United, but when that [transfer] didn't happen, I didn't know anymore. And I started to doubt.
“Leeds United did come. Should I go there? Now I wait everything. I haven't heard from Manchester United yet. When they come, I'll think about it. I also seek the help of God in these.”
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