PSV and Netherlands starlet Cody Gakpo has been devastating in front of goal at the World Cup, underlining glowing comments from Robin van Persie and Ruud van Nistelrooy on his versatility, quality and mentality.
Gakpo opened the scoring against Ecuador on Friday night to earn the Netherlands a point and see them closer to progression with a game to spare. He was also on target in their opener with Senegal, as his stock continues to rise amid interest from across Europe.
United were interested in Gakpo during the summer window and, had they not moved for Antony, he might already call Old Trafford home. But will manager Erik ten Hag eventually sign the highly rated player as replacement for departed five-time Ballon d'Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo?
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Gakpo has now been involved in 34 goals from 28 appearances for club and country this season. In two matches at the World Cup so far, the PSV sensation has shown exactly why he is hot property heading into January with some eye-catching displays which have also displayed his additional qualities.
Even before the global showcase began, his worth had been pointed out by former United frontman Van Persie as PSV manager, Van Nistelrooy, praised Gakpo for handling speculation over his future. He too needs no introduction at Old Trafford following his goalscoring exploits in red during the mid-2000s.
Addressing Gakpo's versatility, Van Persie told BT Sport: "He's a good player and always finds a way to have an influence, in terms of getting an assist or scoring a goal. He's always dangerous.
"He's not really an out-and-out striker; he can play as a number 10, on the [left] wing, as a false striker or on the right wing. He can play in those four positions in the front. Cody has a good physique. He's strong, fast and can dribble, he's an all-round player."
Naturally, given his current role in the dugout, Van Nistelrooy would not necessarily want to see Gakpo depart just yet to Old Trafford. However, having forged that pathway during his own playing career, the former United man has given his old club enough reason to come calling for his sought-after signature.
Addressing heavy summer interest in the player, Van Nistelrooy added: "There have been rumours about him since the beginning of the season almost eight weeks ago and we have not seen Cody changing his behaviour up to now. There were rumours over the whole period - and I admire that a lot in him.
"He's working on his development on a daily basis, playing games and reaching his levels. He's not distracted."
Van Nistelrooy continued: "He's focused on games he has to play and always focused on his next game. For a young guy like him, it's special to see that attitude."
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