Ruud van Nistelrooy makes Cody Gakpo transfer admission as Man Utd plot PSV raid for electric forward

Former Manchester United striker and current PSV boss Ruud van Nistelrooy has been speaking about the future of Cody Gakpo, who has become a top target for Erik ten Hag recently.

Manchester United were hoping to raid Ten Hag’s former club Ajax for Antony. But the Brazilian will cost an enormous sum and this is forcing the Red Devils to look at alternative forwards.

Gakpo is one of the players they are keeping tabs on. The Dutchman is versatile, with the ability to play as a winger on either flank or at centre-forward.

He was in great form last season, registering 21 goals and 15 assists in all competitions. And he has begun the new campaign in a similar fashion, scoring three times in four matches so far.

Gakpo is 23 years old but is already showing he has the ability to cut it in a bigger league.

And Manchester United are expected to make an offer for him before the transfer window closes. This could see the player aim to push through a move, as Fabrizio Romano claims he loves the idea of starring in the Prem.

Amid the speculation, Van Nistelrooy has spoken about his star man. The coach revealed how Gakpo deals with the transfer rumours and praised him for remaining professional.

“He keeps as far as possible away from that – which causes noise – in order to deliver a top performance,” Van Nistelrooy said (via Metro).

Cody Gakpo receives praise from PSV manager

“Cody is 23 years old and that is not always possible at that age, but for me he is someone who is always busy with his profession.

“They really know him. As a trainer I try to help him with everything he needs, but he has to do it himself in the end.”

Gakpo is arguably a better option for United than Antony. Despite his tender age, Gakpo has shown his maturity by captaining PSV on several occasions.

Plus, the seven-time Netherlands international clearly has a great mentality, which would help him succeed if he did move to Old Trafford.

It’s unclear exactly how much Gakpo would cost United. transfermarkt value him at £27m, though PSV would surely ask for more than this.

Cody Gakpo on Manchester United's radar with the club in need of attacking reinforcements

Manchester United have made initial contact with the representatives of PSV winger Cody Gakpo, who contributed to 36 goals in all competitions last season.

Nevertheless, Gakpo would still cost less than Antony. That’s because reports claim the Ajax man is rated at around £70m by his current club.

Van Nistelrooy’s comments on Gakpo suggest the forward is doing well to focus on his development at PSV. This should help him to continue firing in the Eredivisie.

But at the same time, United’s interest in Gakpo will give him something to think about. After all, he seems ready to take the next step in his career.

Meanwhile, United have sent scouts to Brazil to watch a midfielder worth £32m, according to one journalist.