Marcel Brands confirms Man Utd spoke with Cody Gakpo over summer transfer – Man Utd News

PSV’s director of football Marcel Brands has confirmed that Cody Gakpo was in talks with Manchester United over a possible transfer during the summer transfer window.

The Netherlands international was widely fancied to join the Red Devils last month, but a deal did not materialise after the club spent their remaining budget to land Ajax’s Antony.

Gakpo recently admitted that he was expecting to join United, and Brands has now disclosed that the forward’s preparation for the season was disrupted by the Red Devils interest.

He added that United did not make a formal approach until mid-August, but the offer was insufficient.

He told Eindhovens Dagblad: “Cody has had a difficult preparation with us because he has spoken with Manchester United. They didn’t come until mid-August and it didn’t go through.”

“I even think Cody wouldn’t have left at the end of the transfer window if the right amount had been offered. There has been no bid that approached the lower limit of what we agreed with Cody.”

United could make fresh move for Gakpo next year

United were initially aiming to land both Antony and Gakpo this summer. However, they had to spend over the odds to convince Ajax to part ways with the former before the deadline.

As a result, the club could not afford to sign Gakpo from the Dutch Cup champions. PSV were eyeing €50 million for him, but United were reluctant to offer more than €29m.

In our view, United could return for Gakpo at the turn of the year. His form has been spectacular this campaign with nine goals and six assists from just 12 appearances.

The Dutchman has played every game from the left wing, and it could be a position that Erik ten Hag may look to strengthen. He may want more depth and competition in the squad.

The Red Devils are eyeing four signings in the next phase of the rebuild. A forward is one of the priorities, and Gakpo would be a superb acquisition as he can also play in multiple roles.

While he tends to favour the left wing, he can operate on the opposite flank as well as lead the line.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com