Man Utd warned against Cody Gakpo transfer in January as PSV chief opens up on failed talks with Ten Hag’s side

PSV EINDHOVEN have revealed that numerous clubs, including Manchester United and Leeds, failed to match Cody Gakpo’s transfer valuation in summer.

Gakpo, 23, has been heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford for months.

The Red Devils explored the possibility of signing him as an alternative to top target Antony when a deal appeared unlikely.

But they eventually signed the winger for a huge £85.5million fee ahead of deadline day.

As a result, United’s interest in Gakpo cooled, but Erik ten Hag is now claimed to be considering a swoop ahead of the January window.

A number of other clubs including Leeds, Southampton, West Ham, Everton and Real Madrid have also expressed an interest in the Dutchman.

However, PSV director of football Marcel Brands is confident that Gakpo will remain in Eindhoven.

When speaking to ESPN about the interest surrounding the winger, he said: “There was much written that Leeds wanted to pay £43m.

“But there was a bid of £30m plus £11m in bonuses, £6m of which if Leeds made it to the Champions League. And they wanted to pay the amount spread out until 2028.

“No PSV member has doubted that for a second. The supervisory board also agreed on this.”

Brands also revealed that PSV held discussions with Man Utd over a deal for Gakpo before the summer window closed, but the Red Devils refused to pay the asking price of £44m plus bonuses.

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United’s initial hesitance surrounding the deal could potentially make any future negotiations difficult as the Eredivisie giants are expected to increase the asking price given the winger’s impressive form.

Gakpo has scored 13 goals and assisted 16 in 22 appearances so far this season.

Despite missing out on a big-money move to the Premier League over the summer, he is still open to a transfer in the near future.

He told The Times: “I always said if I stay here, it’s my childhood club. It’s not a punishment.

“I like being here, I want to win trophies here and do my best for the club.

“But if I got the chance to go to the Premier League or something, of course I would have to consider that option. At that time it was hectic for me but I recovered pretty quickly.”

Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk