Cody Gakpo has been urged to follow his heart when coming to a decision regarding his future as talk intensifies ahead of the upcoming January transfer window. The PSV Eindhoven forward has been strongly linked with a move to the Premier League in the past and is tipped to make the move this winter.
The 23-year-old has become one of the hottest talents in Europe with his astonishing record in the Eredivisie. Since the start of last season, Gakpo has been involved in 66 goals across all competitions and has netted twice for the Netherlands national team in the World Cup.
Arsenal and Manchester United are said to be interested in the PSV man and will be aware that his market value will only increase from his performances in Qatar. Gakpo revealed in October that he was close to joining United in the summer with Leeds United and Southampton also reportedly close to agreeing a deal.
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As we approach the highly-anticipated January transfer window, Gakpo faces a ginormous decision to make regarding his future. It's expected that interested parties will consider making a serious move for the attacker with football.london understanding that Mikel Arteta is prioritising a new winger and centre midfielder.
One player that has experience in being a young player moving to the Premier League is former Liverpool man Ryan Babel. The Dutchman joined the Reds in 2007 from Ajax and quickly adapted to English football, making over 140 appearances for the Reds. Speaking to The Athletic, Babel explained the differences between the two environments, adapting to the quality and making the correct one.
"You see him linked to clubs in England, such as Manchester United. Everyone has the right place so let's see how he develops in the tournament," he said. "He has shown enough quality that he is ready for the next step, whether it's in January or next summer.
"As a Liverpool fan, I would tell him to go to Liverpool if they make an approach! Arsenal would also be an incredible team for him, with the current manager and the project that they're building. He has to follow his heart.
"When you are a young Dutch player, it is flattering to be linked to big clubs in England, but going from the Dutch league to the Premier League is a big step. Not every player is able to adapt and able to survive in the Premier League. There are a lot of players who are written as the next star, then they go to the Premier League and they can’t cope.
"Dutch mentality is different to English mentality, and you have to learn a new set of rules. In terms of pace, physicality, and the different game styles both you and the opponent will play week-to-week. Also the travelling, the preparation, it’s a lot to deal with.
"When I went to Liverpool in my twenties it was like a whole new world opened. In Holland, when I was at Ajax I still lived at home with my parents and then not only was I living abroad but living by myself too. It was hard not to lag behind, learning the rules of Liverpool and the English culture and the Premier League as a whole.
"If I was to advise Gakpo, I would say, 'Choose your next club based on their style of playing.' If a club like Manchester United comes calling, you first have to picture yourself playing well with that setup, rather than just seeing the name. You have to look at the style of playing and the demands of the coach and ask yourself if can execute to a high level."
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