Manchester United open talks with PSV about Cody Gakpo January transfer

Manchester United have opened talks with PSV Eindhoven over signing forward Cody Gakpo a week ahead of the January transfer window opening.

Gakpo, 23, is the Eredivisie top goalscorer with nine goals in 14 appearances. He also has 12 assists to his name in the competition.

After being close to signing the Dutchman in the summer, reports from Simon Mullock of The Mirror have revealed that United have opened talks with the Netherlands-based club in an attempt to sign the forward next month.

The move was made during the week as The Reds found out that they could purchase Gakpo for less than €50 million due to emerging financial troubles at PSV.

United bosses were made aware of the situation and PSV’s need to sell their star forward and aim to drive through a deal for the talented player.

With his country, Gakpo impressed during the winter World Cup in Qatar, scoring three goals in five appearances before the Netherlands were eliminated against eventual winners Argentina in the quarter-finals.

The aforementioned report added that United boss Erik ten Hag feels that the arrival of the Dutch forward will enhance his side’s chances of finishing in the top four. They are currently fifth and just three points from the fourth spot but have struggled for goals this season.

Ten Hag’s signings have all been successes, however. Lisandro Martinez and Antony both came from the Dutch league and have impressed.

There are others interested in the 23-year-old – Arsenal, Real Madrid and Newcastle – however, United have made progress by contacting his parent club. It’s also clear that personal terms between The Reds and Gakpo’s camp will be no issue.

Gakpo would’ve joined United in the summer had the Old Trafford budget not been focused on the £86 million deal for Antony from Ajax. He also is happy to help his hometown club avoid trouble through his sale, although would prefer a move next month rather than the summer.