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Erik ten Hag coy on Manchester United interest in Cody Gakpo

By Matt Law, Football Editor | 23 December 2022

Erik ten Hag coy on Man United interest in Cody Gakpo

Manchester United head coach Erik ten Hag refuses to disclose whether his side are interested in signing PSV Eindhoven attacker Cody Gakpo in January.

Manchester United head coach Erik ten Hag has refused to confirm whether his side are interested in signing Cody Gakpo during the January transfer window.

The 23-year-old held talks with the Red Devils over the summer, but he ultimately remained with PSV Eindhoven past the transfer deadline.

There is again speculation surrounding the Netherlands international, with Man United said to be keen to bring him to Old Trafford at the start of 2023.

Ten Hag was asked about the Dutchman during his press conference ahead of Tuesday's Premier League clash with Nottingham Forest at Old Trafford.

When asked whether he rated Gakpo's performances at the World Cup, the Man United head coach said: "There were many many good players in the World Cup.''

Netherlands' Cody Gakpo pictured on September 25, 2022 © Reuters

PSV boss Ruud van Nistelrooy recently admitted that PSV could be forced into selling Gakpo in January.

"If I have the choice, I prefer the summer, but it can also be now, you know there comes a time when you can't say no," he told Voetbal International.

"It is wonderful how he has showcased himself. I enjoyed watching him [at the World Cup], he deserves this because of how he has behaved, how he has continued to work and perform.

"I was able to help him from very close by and that makes me proud. I'll give him his path when it comes."

When asked about Van Nistelrooy's comments, Ten Hag said: "I think you can say that about many players."

Netherlands forward Cody Gakpo celebrates scoring against Ecuador in their World Cup game on November 25, 2022.. © Reuters

Gakpo was in strong form for Holland at the 2022 World Cup, scoring three times in five appearances to help his side reach the quarter-finals of the competition.

Meanwhile, the forward has scored 13 goals and registered 17 assists in 24 appearances for PSV this season, with his form allegedly leading to a host of interest.

The Dutch giants have reportedly placed an asking price of £50m on Gakpo, with the club raising their valuation due to his performances at the World Cup.

Man United had originally not planned to sign another attacker in January, but they terminated Cristiano Ronaldo's contract at the end of November, which has left them short of options at centre-forward.

Gakpo, who primarily operates as a left-sided attacker, has managed 55 goals and 50 assists in 159 appearances for PSV since making his debut for the club in 2018.