Cody Gakpo’s next move will hinge on his performances at the World Cup, according to an update from David Ornstein.
David Ornstein reports (via FIVE UK) that Manchester United, Leeds United, and Southampton were all genuinely interested in signing Gakpo over the summer, among others.
As it stands, Leeds United won’t be reviving their move, and Manchester United opted to spend big on Antony instead, leaving the door open to others.
Leeds’ withdrawal is because Gakpo now believes he’s capable of achieving a move to a Champions League club, with Ornstein’s sources suggesting Real Madrid are in the picture.
PSV need to raise money, and Gakpo’s sale is the obvious solution. Even though he only recently signed a new deal, they won’t stand in his way if the right offer comes in. But it may depend on whether he impresses at the World Cup.
From an Arsenal point of view, the Gunners have been linked with Gakpo on a number of occasions throughout 2022.
They’ll get a first-hand look at the player before the World Cup when he travels to the Emirates Stadium next Thursday with PSV, and it’s very possible he could push Arsenal to bid for him in January with strong performances over the next fortnight.
But that cuts both ways. If Gakpo doesn’t impress against Arsenal and has an average World Cup, then racking up the goals and assists in Eredivisie matches might not be enough to convince the Gunners he’s worth the investment.
Arsenal already reportedly passed on the signing in the summer, so it’s up to the winger to change their minds.