Manchester United have reportedly put a move for PSV Eindhoven forward Cody Gakpo on hold, as they grow confident of finalising a deal to sign Ajax winger Antony before transfer deadline day.
Erik ten Hag and the Red Devils' recruitment team are working to sign an attacker before the summer window slams shut next Thursday, with the two Eredivisie stars emerging as his top targets during the opening weeks of the new Premier League season. However, United have made a decision to prioritise Antony over Gakpo amid speculation that United could sign both players.
While a move for Gakpo isn't fully off the table, the Athletic report that interest from Old Trafford has cooled after promising developments regarding Antony's situation. Mirror Football understands that the Brazilian has handed in a transfer request at Ajax in a desperate bid to reunite with Ten Hag, who coached him for two years in Amsterdam.
The Red Devils have already had two offers rejected for Antony but are preparing to submit a fresh proposal worth £76million, with Old Trafford chiefs confident that a deal can be done. Ajax are holding firm for their £84m asking price, but could be forced into selling the 22-year-old if he continues to push for a move.
Given the Red Devils' decision, Gakpo looks increasingly likely to remain with PSV for the full 2022-23 campaign, even after they suffered heartbreak in the Champions League qualifiers on Wednesday evening. The Dutch giants were beaten 1-0 at home to Rangers, who booked their place in the group stages with a 3-2 aggregate win.
Ruud van Nistelrooy 's men will now join Ten Hag and co in the Europa League, with the draw taking place at 12pm on Friday. Gakpo captained PSV in their defeat but pre-match, Van Nistelrooy heaped praise on the in-demand Netherlands international.
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"I think I am very relaxed about the situation," the former United striker told a news conference. "There have been rumours about him since the beginning of the season almost eight weeks ago. And we have not seen Cody changing his behaviour up to now.
"There were rumours over the whole period, and I admire that a lot in him. He is working on his development on a daily basis, playing in games and reaching his level. He is not distracted, he is focused on the games he has to play and focused on tomorrow's game with his teammates.
"For a young guy like him it is special to see that attitude. It's obvious [we want him to stay]. As long as he's a PSV player he's here. That's what I'll focus on and him as well. There's no if or what ifs. He's a PSV player until further notice."
