Cody Gakpo's stance on joining Man Utd as Erik ten Hag link is revealed

Cody Gakpo has responded favourably to Manchester United’s approach and would welcome a move to Old Trafford this summer, according to reports.

The Red Devils are ramping up their efforts to bring in new players before the transfer deadline at the end of the month, with their Premier League opening weekend defeat at home to Brighton underlining the need for reinforcements.

Erik ten Hag has long wanted to add a new attacker to his frontline options, though met resistance when he tried to take Brazilian winger Antony with him from Ajax.

There were suggestions the Eredivisie champions would only accept an offer in the region of £80million, meaning United’s efforts to bring in a winger were put on the backburner while more pressing positions were focused on – such as midfield.

But the match against Brighton highlighted the need for a new attacker, with Ten Hag forced to field Christian Eriksen as a false nine due to Anthony Martial’s injury and Cristiano Ronaldo’s lack of sharpness.

United have now turned their attention to another Eredivisie talent to bolster their ailing frontline, with PSV Eindhoven’s young forward Gakpo the player they have set their sights on.

Reports emerged on Tuesday claiming United were preparing a £35m move for the 23-year-old – and they are likely to meet significantly less resistance than other targets they have pursued this summer.

According to The Telegraph, Gakpo has welcomed United’s interest and would be keen to link up with countryman Ten Hag at Old Trafford.

Although the Red Devils have yet to open formal talks with his representatives, there are no fears that he would prefer to stay at PSV – where he has a guaranteed starting berth – ahead of this winter’s World Cup.

United have already missed out on Jurrien Timber after the Dutchman felt his place in the Netherlands’ squad for Qatar could be put at risk by moving to the Premier League, with Louis van Gaal having warned his charges they need to be playing regularly.

That does not appear to be an issue for Gakpo, who would be keen to work under Ten Hag even though the United boss sees his compatriot as more of a versatile, squad option capable of playing across the frontline.

Interestingly, Gakpo – who predominantly plays off the left wing for PSV but is also capable through the middle – is represented by Dutch agency SEG, who also advise Ten Hag.

PSV are willing to accept an offer in the region of £35m – less than half what Ajax were demanding for Antony – though United are not the only Premier League side interested in Gakpo with Arsenal among the clubs also linked with moves.

For more stories like this, check our sport page.

Follow Metro Sport for the latest news onFacebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Source: Read Full Article