Man Utd ‘could bid for Cody Gakpo in January rather than summer as red-hot World Cup sees rivals join transfer race’

MANCHESTER UNITED are reportedly ready to up their efforts to sign World Cup star Cody Gakpo.

The Red Devils have been interested in the winger since the summer but could make a move for him in January.

Gakpo has excelled at the World Cup in Qatar and has scored three goals in three games for Holland.

United signed Antony from the Eredivise side Ajax in the summer over Gakpo, but are still interested in him.

This form on the biggest stage has seen interest in Gakpo rise, which might force Erik ten Hag’s hand into making a move for him sooner, according to Fabrizio Romano.

Speaking on his , the transfer specialist said: “He is doing absolutely fantastic in the World Cup, he has scored in every game.

“His numbers with PSV were already great, because he is scoring goals and providing assists. This player is special.

“Manchester United are still in contact with the agents of Cody Gakpo, they have new contacts planned to have new discussions.

“The relationship is fantastic, the agents of Gakpo are the same agents of [manager] Erik ten Hag. They are working hard on this.

“Manchester United will have to decide on the price as in the summer PSV were demanding £43million and after the World Cup it will be higher.”

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While tweeting the video, the journalist mentioned that “there are chances for Cody Gakpo to leave PSV already in January.”

Former England star Joe Cole believes that the player is worth that high fee, he told ITV Sport: “Yeah, I would, 100 per cent pay it because he’s young and we know there is a value on youth.

“He looks like the real deal. I know it was Qatar. I know they are not one of the strongest nations but against Ecuador he scored, against Senegal, he scored.

“He affects the game. And players that affect the game, that’s where the value is.

“I really like him. I’ve liked what I’ve seen at PSV and I’m pretty sure there will be some offers on the door at PSV in January.”

However, United will have to make their decision quickly as Romano has stated that Liverpool have sent scouts to watch him as well as interest from other clubs.