Manchester United‘s 2-1 defeat against Brighton once again highlighted the need for new signings at Old Trafford, and it seems as if Erik ten Hag has identified a new winger to bring to the club.
What’s the word?
United had been linked with Ajax winger Antony earlier in the window but after the Eredivisie side placed an £80m valuation on the Brazilian’s head, the Red Devils have begun to consider other options.
As per Italian football journalist Fabrizio Romano, United are considering a move for PSV Eindhoven star Cody Gakpo. He said:
“Manchester United are discussing Cody Gakpo internally, he’d love PL move.”
He goes on to suggest that: “Gakpo’s one of the names in the list alongside priority target Antony – no official bid yet.”
Ten Hag would love him
Ten Hag will be well aware of what Gakpo can offer after the 23-year-old was one of the stars of the Dutch top-flight last season.
The Netherlands international hit a hugely impressive 12 goals and 13 assists in just 27 Eredivise appearances, averaging a phenomenal 7.79 rating from WhoScored for his performances.
Should United sign Gakpo?
Yes
No
For context, the best performing player in Manchester United’s squad last season, according to WhoScored, was Cristiano Ronaldo, as he averaged a 7.11 rating, which goes to show just how impressive Gakpo was.
The young winger has continued that form into the new season, contributing three goals and two assists in his first four appearances for PSV, so he would definitely arrive at Old Trafford in a confident mood.
Ten Hag will be desperate to add attacking quality to his side before the transfer window shuts, and Gakpo’s stats last season suggest that he could add some real impetus in the final third.
The 23-year-old averaged three shots, 2.9 dribbles and 2.6 key passes per game in the Eredivise last season. Only Ronaldo would better this shot per game average, while Gakpo led all other United players in each of these areas.
Such form and quality has seen the PSV star lauded as “phenomenal” and “special” by talent scout Jacek Kulig and under the tutelage of former United star Ruud van Nistelrooy, he has clearly become a lethal threat, earning comparisons to Thierry Henry and Robin van Persie.
Therefore, he is clearly the type of player that Ten Hag would love to have at Old Trafford, so fans will be hoping that the Red Devils pay his reported £38m fee.
