Cody Gakpo ‘holding out’ for Man Utd transfer reveals ex-PSV director with Netherlands ace lighting up World Cup

NETHERLANDS star Cody Gakpo is 'holding out' for a move to Manchester United.

PSV Eindhoven superstar Gakpo has been lighting up the Eredivisie this season with some stunning performances that saw him register a whopping nine goals and 12 assists in 14 league appearances.

The winger is also standing out in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar as he has scored in both of Holland's matches in the group stage against Senegal and Ecuador.

According to PSV's former technical director John de Jong, the 23-year-old has big plans for his future and has his sights set on United.

De Jong claims a deal with the Red Devils came close last summer but fell through a week before deadline day.

Gakpo still had the opportunity to move to the Premier League but refused to board a private jet to Leeds and wasn't attracted by Southampton's club-record bid.

The former PSV chief, who was sacked in September for a "breach of confidence" with the board, insists the forward is prioritising United.

De Jong told NOS on Sunday: "Cody has been waiting a long time for the transfer to Manchester United and it seemed to be coming.

"A week before the end of the transfer window that fell through. After that he had two options in the Premier League, but you never know how that will turn out.

"He made the choice himself. In the end I did have a discussion with the board, whether or not to sell. I think it is really better for him that he stayed.

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"I think it’s very nice how he is developing. He continues the line he started at PSV this season.

"He is very effective and decisive. Also at the World Cup. I really enjoy watching it.

"It is especially great for Cody Gakpo that he is doing so well, but ultimately also for PSV and Dutch football."

United manager Erik ten Hag has reportedly prioritised Gakpo as his top candidate to replace Cristiano Ronaldo in the January transfer window.