Cody Gakpo is one of the most talked about players to come out of the World Cup despite the Netherlands failure to make it past the Quarter Finals stage. The 23-year-old was linked with a move to Leeds United last summer, with Southampton also keen on signing the versatile attacker.
Erik ten Hag of Manchester United was also keen on signing Gakpo, but having spent a large chunk of their budget on Lisandro Martinez and Antony, the Red Devils were unable to sanction a deal. After scoring 21 goals in 47 appearances last season, the young Dutch star picked up where he left off last season with an impressive 13 goals in 24 appearances heading into the World Cup.
It was in Qatar that Gakpo announced himself on the World stage with three goals in five appearances at the tournament. His performances with the national side has only seen speculation intensify, with Newcastle United reportedly among Gakpo's suitors.
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The Magpies would have to fend off interest from the likes of Real Madrid, Liverpool and Manchester United. Chronicle Live spoke with Michael Statham from Football Oranje for an insight into Cody Gakpo and what he might bring to Newcastle United.
Gakpo has been one of the standout performers for PSV over the past two seasons, for those who haven't watched him, what kind of players is he and do you think those attributes would make him a standout performer in the Premier League?
Michael Statham: "Cody Gakpo is a forward who can play in a few advanced positions. At PSV, the Dutchman is an inverted left winger, who constantly produces dangerous whipped crosses into the box from wide positions and from corners.
"He has also occasionally played as a striker (thanks to his height) and as a number ten for the Netherlands in this World Cup. You can see these attributes helping him stand out for a Premier League team who plays on the counter attack and who uses set pieces and crosses from wide areas as their main threats of attack."
Do you think a move to Newcastle United could transpire and what sort of fee would be deemed acceptable?
MS: "I think it is still highly likely Gakpo moves in the summer transfer window and to link up with countryman Erik Ten Hag at Manchester United. His fee and reputation have risen this season since the disappointment of PSV's Champions League exit.
"Gakpo was criticised for not coming up with the goods on the biggest of occasions such as in Europe or in the big Eredivisie games. The World Cup has been a brilliant opportunity to prove these critics wrong (myself included) and inflate his transfer fee even more."
Gakpo has caught the eye in the World Cup but is there anything during his time in the Eredvisie that stands out that the wider football world may not be aware of?
MS: "Gakpo is currently captain of his boyhood club PSV. He has a strong attachment to the fans, who have already persuaded him to stay at the club longer to help them enjoy success. The Netherlands international recently opened up that his strong Christian faith helps drive him on the pitch."
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