Manchester United will reportedly turn their attention to AC Milan forward Rafael Leao if PSV Eindhoven are reluctant to reach an agreement on a deal for Cody Gakpo during the January transfer window,
Following the mutual termination of Cristiano Ronaldo’s Old Trafford contract, the Red Devils are putting their efforts into recruiting another forward to take his place.
Although Ronaldo was no longer in his prime years, he was still a reliable attacker for United, and his decision to add a few more goals may have made the difference in the top-four competition at the end of the season.
Gakpo was the subject of direct discussions with Erik ten Hag in the summer, and it is no secret that United are looking to sign him.
The 23-year-old’s value has increased significantly at the World Cup after scoring in each of Holland’s three group games against Senegal, Ecuador, and Qatar. The Daily Star claims that United intends to make a January move, but the Dutch club wants £50 million in order to reach an agreement.
Furthermore, it is asserted that PSV has opposed the idea of a mid-season sale and would rather hold off on doing so until the summer break.
There is still a lot to play for as Ruud van Nistelrooy’s team currently sits in third place in the Eredivisie, three points behind league leaders Feyenoord.
Losing Gakpo would be devastating, but United does have a backup plan in case PSV decides to stick their necks out and try to keep Gakpo.
AC Milan star Leao’s contract is now set to end in 2024, but discussions about an extension are still going on with his parent club. Leao scored 11 goals in the Serie A last season, helping AC Milan win their first Scudetto in 11 years. In Portugal’s 3-2 victory over Ghana, the highly regarded 23-year-old scored with his very first touch at the World Cup. The United executives have a strong admiration for the pacy winger, but they are aware that he might cost more than Gakpo.
United wants to bring in an attacker who can be versatile upfront. Gakpo appears to be United’s top priority, but it remains to be seen whether they will splash a decent sum to sign him in January.
