Cody Gakpo, a striker for PSV and the Netherlands national team, has been connected to Mikel Arteta and Arsenal, although the player reportedly wants to play for Manchester United with Erik ten Hag.
ARSENAL TARGET CODY GAKPO WANTS TO JOIN MANCHESTER UNITED
Gakpo is already persuaded of the concept of joining Manchester United in the next January. The 23-year-old, a standout for the Netherlands at the 2022 Qatar World Cup, has been inspired by his countryman Ten Hag’s teaching style since he was appointed Manchester United manager in the summer of 2022. Ten Hag previously had great success with Ajax.
It has been stated that Manchester United are prepared to spend £40 million in transfer fees to get Gakpo. Arsenal would be dealt a setback if Gakpo is prepared to sign with Manchester United.
That’s because, according to BT Sport, former Arsenal and Manchester United striker Robin van Persie called the PSV star dangerous. The Gunners are said to be interested in signing him.
Due to Gabriel Jesus’ injury, Arsenal will be shopping for a new striker during the January transfer window. The Brazilian national team striker was hurt during play in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
Where will he finally move to?
Arsenal is reportedly quite interested in acquiring Gakpo during the next January transfer window. While Arsenal may be interested in the attacker, they may lose out if he chooses to play for Manchester United.
Manchester United are looking to replace Cristiano Ronaldo in their starting lineup, so they can continue their success. Erik ten Hag thinks Cody Gakpo may be a good substitute. There is optimism that his nine goals and 12 assists in the Eredivisie this season may fill the void left by Ronaldo.
The performances of Lisandro Martinez and Antony may have helped allay some of the concerns supporters had about Gakpo’s ability to adjust to the Premier League when he was linked to a transfer in the summer. But there is still a chance of failure.
What’s next for Arsenal?
United have been here before, trying to acquire the services of a sensational left winger from PSV Eindhoven in the Dutch Eredivisie. During Louis van Gaal’s tenure as manager, the club spent £27 million for him.
Many thought Memphis would be an instant hit. But after a few lacklustre years with the club and a managerial switch to Jose Mourinho, he was sent off cheaply to Olympique Lyon.
Although Memphis would go on to have a successful career, it can now be seen that United squandered his talent when he was still at the club. Something like this happening to Gakpo is something Ten Hag cannot tolerate.
Depay’s lack of effort was a factor, which the player acknowledged was an issue. But he was also badly handled by both of his managers. Ten Hag is said to be considering playing Gakpo as a striker. However, he has never been successful in that position.
