Cody Gakpo has announced himself on the biggest stage with goals in each of the Netherlands opening two World Cup games – having held talks to join Manchester United.
The PSV Eindhoven attacker appeared set to leave the Eredivisie club this summer as Old Trafford looked to be his most likely destination. The Dutch international ace has attracted Premier League attention while the 23-year-old has spoken directly about United’s interest in his signature.
However, Gakpo eventually remained in Eindhoven as his move to United did not come to fruition, despite holding conversations with boss Erik ten Hag. The Red Devils boss was well aware of Gakpo’s talents having faced him as an opposition when he was at the helm of Ajax.
Ten Hag and United decided upon signing Antony from Ajax to bolster his wide attacking area, yet there is a high chance that the club once again revive their interest in Gakpo in 2023. Cristiano Ronaldo ’s exit has left United light on attacking numbers this campaign, despite the emergence of teenage talent Alejandro Garnacho.
Gakpo explained on his talks to United in an interview with The Times last month: "I was close to leaving, I spoke to Erik ten Hag a few times at Manchester United. In the end the deal didn’t go through, which was a shame, for me and my development, and because Manchester United is one of the biggest clubs in the world, but also for PSV, because to transfer a player to Manchester United is a good thing for the club.
"It ended about a week before the end of the transfer window and in that week I had to decide if I would go to Leeds or Southampton. In the end I stayed, but it was a stressful period."
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Gakpo has shown United what they are missing by his performances in this World Cup – finding the net in each of his opening two World Cup matches. He bagged the late opener as the Netherlands beat Senegal 2-0 in their opening game before once again opening the scoring against Ecuador.
The 23-year-old bagged the opener after just six minutes for Louis van Gaal’s side, who were hopeful of sealing their place in the Round of 16 knockout stage with one round of group games still remaining. It was another powerful finish from Gakpo which left the opposition goalkeeper with no chance.
Gakpo has been in fine goal scoring form for his club side this season too, netting 13 goals for PSV so far. His price tag will no doubt have been elevated further from his early World Cup exploits – and looks set to play a key role for his nation.
