PSV Eindhoven director of football Marcel Brands has claimed that talks between Manchester United and Cody Gakpo made for a "difficult" start to the season for the winger. The Netherlands international was linked with the Red Devils and Arsenal, with Brands explaining why a move didn't happen.
Despite the tough start for the 23-year-old, he has still found his old rhythm in the Eredivisie. Gakpo has managed seven goals and three assists in the first six appearances, showing exactly why some Premier League clubs were eyeing a move over the summer.
football.london understood that Arsenal were keen on a deal, with Mikel Arteta seen as an admirer of the Dutchman. The PSV forward is said to be dreaming of a switch to England to play in the Premier League, however, his current priority remains the World Cup with the Netherlands.
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With the Gunners' light in wide areas, there could be the possibility of a return in interest for the versatile goal scorer in January, especially after the World Cup passes, and there may be more certainty surrounding his future. However, he appeared close to a potential move to Man United in the summer, though Brands confirmed why that, and a switch to Arsenal, wasn't possible.
Speaking to ED, the sporting director claimed: "Cody [Gakpo] has had a difficult preparation with us because he has spoken with Manchester United. They didn't come until mid-August and didn't go through.
"I even think Cody wouldn't have left at the end of the transfer window if the right amount had been offered. There has been no bid that approached the lower bound of what we agreed with Cody."
With a move blocked off in the summer, it remains to be seen if Arteta will be tempted by another possible switch when the window opens again in a few months time.
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