by Dutch star Cody Gakpo ‘long overdue’ Manchester United move and deal ‘failed’ at end of summer transfer window, claims ex-PSV chief
- Striker Cody Gakpo has been in fine form for PSV and Holland this season
- The 23-year-old was set to move to Leeds United but opted to stay
- Ex-PSV manager John de Jong says Gakpo wants Man United move
- Gakpo has scored two of the Netherlands’ three World Cup goals so far
Former PSV technical director John de Jong has claimed that Cody Gakpo is keen on a move to Manchester United.
The 23-year-old striker has been in fine form for the Eredivisie side this season, with 12 goals and 15 assists in all competitions.
Gakpo replicated his club form for the Netherlands at the World Cup by scoring against Senegal and Ecuador as Louis van Gaal’s side seek to qualify for the knockout stage of the competition.
Dutch striker Cody Gakpo has been in fine form for PSV and Holland this season
The PSV striker was close to a move to Leeds in the summer before opposing it on deadline day. Southampton were another Premier League side keen on him, but a move did not materialise.
De Jong has claimed Gakpo has his eyes set on a move to Old Trafford despite failing a deal previously.
Speaking to NOS on Sunday, he said: “Cody has been waiting for the move to Manchester United for a long time and it seemed to be coming.”
“A week before the end of the failed transfer window. After that he had two options in the Premier League, but you never know how it will turn out.
The striker was close to a move to Leeds in the summer before deciding against it.
“He made his own choice. In the end, I had a discussion with the board about whether I should sell or not. I think it’s really better for him that he stays.
“I think it’s very good how he’s developing. He continues the line he started at PSV this season
“He is very efficient and decisive. Also at the World Cup. I really like watching it. It’s especially good for Cody Gakpo that he’s doing so well, but ultimately also for PSV and Dutch football.
Gakpo has shone in Qatar scoring two of the Netherlands’ three World Cup goals so far
De Jong was sacked after 22 years by PSV in September for ‘breach of trust’ with the board.
United were heavily linked with Gakpo as he was tipped to replace Cristiano Ronaldo, but the Portuguese star remained at the club and interest in Gakpo waned.
Recent reports suggest that Erik ten Hag is now keen to bring Gakpo to United in January following Ronaldo’s dramatic exit last week.
Gakpo will return to action with the Netherlands when they face Qatar in their final group match on Tuesday. A win against the hosts will see Van Gaal’s side qualify for the knockout stages.
