In light of Manchester United’s alleged interest in Cody Gakpo, Virgil van Dijk has poked fun at the Red Devils. At Old Trafford, transfer rumours have taken centre stage.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s early departure and Gakpo’s sensational World Cup performance have only fueled interest in the January transfer window.
The PSV Eindhoven star is tied for the second-highest scorer in Qatar with Marcus Rashford, Lionel Messi, Enner Valencia, and Alvaro Morata. Kylian Mbappe has scored the most goals in this World Cup campaign.
Given that Gakpo has scored 13 goals and provided 17 assists in 24 appearances for his club this season, a breakout tournament is not surprising. Due to his performances at the World Cup, any potential move next month will cost a decent sum of money. However, the goal of keeping Gakpo away from Old Trafford has been planted by Liverpool defender Van Dijk, who is not a United ally. When asked about Gakpo’s chances of joining Madrid or United, the Reds centre-back asserted that United are not even close to Real Madrid’s level.
After the Netherlands defeated the United States, the Liverpool defender spoke about the prospect of joining United. As reported by the Sun, he said:
“Are Manchester United and Real Madrid at the same level at the moment? No disrespect, not at all. I definitely think he has that next step in him. I definitely feel like it could happen, whether that is in the winter or the summer or next year, time will tell.
“He is a great boy who works hard, very talented and definitely there is more in him. we are so pleased he is doing so well for us. Long may it continue.”
United may not be at the same level as Madrid but the Old Trafford side remains a hot destination for World class players. The team’s growth under Ten Hag has been there to watch and the club will be planning an attractive project with the Dutch coach.
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Gakpo is one of those players that have been earmarked by the board as they look to strengthen the squad’s attacking depth.
Younger players are also being developed under the manager’s vision and sooner or later the Red Devils will be among the best clubs if they continue to follow the upward curve.
