Summer transfer window looms large for Manchester United
Manchester United have reportedly shortlisted two rising stars in Cody Gakpo and Joao Palhinha for upcoming summer transfer window.
According to The Mirror, the Red Devils have scouted PSV Eindhoven forward Cody Gakpo several times this season. The 22-year-old has been a standout performer in the Eredivisie on a number of occasions this season.
The Mirror’s Tom Hopkinson also reported that the Red Devils shortlisted Joao Palhinha from Sporting. The forward has recently helped his Portuguese club deliver whenever they needed his skills, dribbles and goals.
Gakpo has scored 13 goals and registered 13 assists from 33 matches across all competitions this season. Seven of those goals and 12 of those assists have come in18 Eredivisie matches.
The PSV star signed a contract extension last month, extending his deal until 2026. The Dutch international has scored one goal for The Netherlands in four appearances.
Hopkinson also said that United manager Ralf Rangnick asked the club’s scouting department to take a closer look at Gakpo. Man United scouts watched him lead PSV to a 1-0 Europa League victory over Maccabi Tel Aviv.
As of now, Manchester United’s forward options are likely to decrease in the summer meaning the Reds are sure to target replacement signings in the upcoming transfer window. Forward Edinson Cavani looks set to leave the club on a free transfer alongside midfielders Paul Pogba, Juan Mata and Jesse Lingard.
Cristiano Ronaldo is unlikely to stick around and play Europa League football at the age of 37 when he is the Champions League’s all-time top goal scorer. Mason Greenwood will not be considered for selection for the foreseeable future due to his legal issues and Anthony Martial’s future with the club may depend on how well he does on loan to Sevilla.
At the age of 22, Gakpo has his best years ahead of him and his ability to play anywhere in the forward line makes him an attractive option for Manchester United.
The Red Devils have also been tracking the progress of Palhinha, who signed a contract extension with the Portuguese club. Man United will face considerable competition for the 26-year-old from other Premier League sides including Tottenham, Newcastle and Wolves, reports The Sun.
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