Manchester United are reportedly becoming 'increasingly confident' of bringing PSV Eindhoven attacker Cody Gakpo to Old Trafford during the January transfer window.
The 23-year-old has been in impressive form for the Netherlands at the 2022 World Cup, scoring three times in the country's three Group A appearances against Senegal, Ecuador and Qatar.
Gakpo has also been excellent for PSV during the 2022-23 campaign, scoring nine goals and registering 12 assists in 14 appearances in the Eredivisie.
Meanwhile, he scored three goals and registered two assists in five appearances in the group stage of the Europa League, with his form leading to a host of speculation.
Man United considered signing the attacker over the summer but ultimately focused on bringing in Brazil international Antony from Ajax.
© Reuters
Cristiano Ronaldo's recent departure has left the Red Devils short of options in the final third of the field ahead of the second half of the 2022-23 campaign.
The club had allegedly been planning to keep Ronaldo until next summer before bringing in a new striker ahead of the 2023-24 season.
However, their plans have now seemingly changed, with an attacking addition expected to be made in January, as Red Devils boss Erik ten Hag is said to be concerned by his lack of options at centre-forward.
Man United continue to be heavily linked with the Dutchman, and according to Football Insider, the club are confident of bringing him to Old Trafford at the start of 2023.
The report claims that Eindhoven are likely to struggle to keep hold of Gakpo in January if he continues to put in impressive performances for his country at the World Cup.
© Reuters
Leeds United and Southampton also attempted to sign Gakpo late in the summer window, but the two clubs are now not expected to be in the race for his signature.
"I'm focused now on the World Cup. It's always nice to hear [transfer rumours] but I just focus here and do my best," Gakpo recently told reporters when questioned on the transfer speculation.
"I don't get shy about the rumours. But it's a team sport, it's not about one person. I prefer it to be about the team. It's nice things that people write, but I'm not too concerned with that.
"Right now I'm busy with the Dutch team. I'll see what happens in the winter. In football, anything is possible."
Gakpo has scored 55 goals and registered 50 assists in 159 appearances for PSV since making his first-team debut in 2018.
