PSV Eindhoven are reportedly expecting Cody Gakpo to finally leave the club in the January transfer window, handing Arsenal a huge boost in their fierce battle with Manchester United to sign the forward.
Gakpo has been linked with a move to the Premier League for the most part of the 2022/23 season after failing to secure a move away from the Eredivisie in the summer. The 23-year-old was heavily rumoured to be of interest to Manchester United and his performances this season have seen the Gunners join the transfer race.
From 34 appearances for club and country, Gakpo has been involved in 36 goals and is the top scorer in the Netherlands. After impressing for PSV in the domestic campaign, the forward has only warranted further interest with his performances in the 2022 World Cup with three goals in five games.
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The Gunners are expected to flex their position as league leaders in the Premier League next month to add a short-term replacement to Gabriel Jesus following the forward's knee injury. The Brazilian played a key part in helping Mikel Arteta's side become a surprise title contender but is expected to be sidelined for a number of months.
PSV have reportedly slapped a price tag between €40million and €45million (£34million-£38million) on Gakpo amid interest from Arsenal and United. However, it seems the Dutch giants have accepted their faith regarding keeping hold of their talisman.
According to 90min, PSV are expecting to lose Gakpo in the January window and are happy to talk to any interested clubs. The news comes after director of football Marcel Brands' comments during a PSV fans' event on Monday evening, where he admitted the forward would be handed the green light to move on should the club receive the record transfer fee for him - which is currently €45million (£38million) they received for Hirving Lozano from Napoli in 2019.
"You have to be realistic. When you talk about Cody's price tag, how many European clubs are able to buy a player of his calibre? Maybe 10 or 12 clubs? You just need a player in that position and then also be able and willing to spend the money in January. We just have to see if it all happens," Brands explained.
"It must be a record transfer for PSV anyway, so then you know which direction it is going. More than €40million (£34million) in any case.
"We have to see if it will all happen. In the media it seems like all clubs are lining up, but the reality is that we are not yet aware of any interest. Cody is going on vacation now. If there was something going on, it might be known to Cody or his management. However, nothing is known to us."
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