Manchester United have received a major boost in the race to sign PSV Eindhoven striker Cody Gakpo, as Fabrizio Romano has reported that their top rivals Liverpool are yet to open talks with the Dutch star.
Gakpo, who previously revealed that he had held discussions with Erik ten Hag in the summer, has been strongly linked with a move to the United States in particular.
Marcel Brands, the chief executive of PSV, suggested this week that maybe 10 to 12 clubs would be able to afford Gakpo’s price, despite Romano’s earlier statement that a price of £43 million would be sufficient to persuade the Dutch club to sell.
Arsenal are also linked with a move for Gakpo, but it seems that they have earmarked Shakhtar Donetsk winger Mykhaylo Mudryk as their top target in January. Gakpo, who scored in each of the Netherlands’ three World Cup group games, might still be on the Gunner’s radar.
It was also reported that the 23-year-old’s agent will be holding talks with another rival club, Liverpool. However, Romano made it clear that the Reds have yet to open talks with the striker.
The renowned journalist said:
“There is competition because clubs are informed. But honestly, on all the rumours I saw, like “Liverpool are in talks for Gakpo,” from what I’m told, “at the moment, there are no talks between Liverpool and Gakpo.”
The news will be encouraging for United and Arsenal, who may now compete for the services of the winger. Gakpo made 14 Eredivisie appearances this season and has contributed with nine goals and 12 assists.
