Cody Gakpo will be hoping to show Arsenal what they missed out on this summer, when the Gunners host PSV Eindhoven in the Europa League on Thursday evening. The forward was strongly linked with a move to Arsenal during the transfer window, with Leeds United, Everton, Southampton and Liverpool all also mentioned.
football.london understands the 23-year-old has been on Edu's radar for some time after enjoying an outstanding 2021/22 campaign, scoring 21 goals and providing 15 assists in all competitions. However, despite interest from Arsenal and a host of other Premier League sides, Gakpo decided to stay in the Eredivisie with PSV this summer.
Ahead of Thursday night's clash at the Emirates Stadium, PSV played RKC Waalwijk in the Dutch league on Sunday afternoon, winning the game 1-0. Gakpo scored a stoppage-time penalty to secure the three points, as he sent a strong message to the Gunners ahead of the European tie.
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PSV had been frustrated, hitting the woodwork three times against RKC Waalwijk and taking over 20 shots, before Gakpo demonstrated why he's so highly sought after by calmly slotting the spot-kick.
The goal was Gakpo's tenth goal contribution in just six league games so far this season. Based on his performances, there will still be a long list of admirers of the Dutchman once the January window comes around.
Across all competitions, the winger's late winner was his 15th direct contribution across 11 games, highlighting the threat he poses both in the league and in Europe.
As long-term admirers of the 23-year-old, Arsenal will be well aware of what Gakpo can do and he'll be eager to impress on Thursday evening against a team who were strongly linked with him just last month.
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