Manchester United are being heavily linked with a move for Netherlands forward Cody Gakpo.
Though John Murtough has repeatedly stated United won't be looking to spend big money in January, they may be forced into a change of plans after Cristiano Ronaldo's departure. The Portuguese's contract was mutually terminated following his explosive interview with Piers Morgan last week.
His exit means Erik ten Hag only has Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford as central striking options and Gakpo is being touted as a possible reinforcement in the attack. Though the 23-year-old primarily plays on the wings for PSV Eindhoven, he has impressed at the World Cup playing up front and has scored two superb goals already.
READ MORE: Ferguson was left "numb" by forgotten United player's horrific injury
Here is everything that has been said on Gakpo's potential move to United:
Cody Gakpo
When asked if he would be open to a switch in January, Gakpo said, as reported by The Athletic: "Right now I’m busy with the Dutch team. I’ll see what happens in the winter. In football, anything is possible.
"I’m focused now on the World Cup. It’s always nice to hear but I just focus here and do my best. I don’t get shy about the rumours. But it’s a team sport, it’s not about one person. I prefer it to be about the team. It’s nice things that people write, but I’m not too concerned with that.
"I’m not surprised. I know what I’m capable of but it’s always a challenge to reach your highest level, that’s possible. I’m not there yet, I can improve in a lot of things.
"I know I scored two goals this World Cup. But that’s not the focus right now. I can improve, I want to help the team. It’s about being the best team in the end."
John De Jong
Former PSV technical director De Jong told NOS: "Cody has been waiting a long time for the transfer to Manchester United and it seemed to be coming," he said. A week before the end of the transfer window that fell through. After that he had two options in the Premier League, but you never know how that will turn out.
"He made the choice himself. In the end I did have a discussion with the board, whether or not to sell. I think it is really better for him that he stayed. I think it’s very nice how he is developing. He continues the line he started at PSV this season.
"He is very effective and decisive. Also at the World Cup. I really enjoy watching it. It is especially great for Cody Gakpo that he is doing so well, but ultimately also for PSV and Dutch football."
Teddy Sheringham
"Man United do not need another flitty player like Gakpo in their ranks," he explained to BoyleSports Football. "We need a centre-forward who can lead the line now that Ronaldo has gone. We need a focal point for the team to hit and who can bring players into play.
"We cannot go for another technical player who can play as a winger or a false nine. We already have so many of those in [Anthony] Martial, [Marcus] Rashford and [Jadon] Sancho and right now it's a bit of a detriment to be honest."
READ NEXT:
