First January Deal Announced – Man United expected to sign £40m star despite Arsenal’s attempts to hijack move in January

Despite Arsenal’s attempts to derail the transfer, Manchester United is expected to sign a £40 million star.

According to TeamTalk, Manchester United is expected to sign Cody Gakpo, despite Arsenal joining the fight to get the £40 million-rated PSV Eindhoven forward.

Gakpo has spent his whole career with PSV, having joined the club’s youth academy as a child. Since breaking into the first team set-up in 2018, he’s evolved into one of the most highly-rated players in Dutch football.

The 23-year-old is now a key member of Ruud van Nistelrooy’s starting eleven and was crowned Eredivisie Player of the Year last season after contributing 21 goals and 15 assists.

Gakpo is on track to break that record this season, having already picked up 13 goals and 14 assists in just 21 games, and his outstanding play has numerous elite clubs sitting up and taking notice.

Manchester United was heavily linked with the Dutch international in the summer, and TeamTalk reports they had negotiated personal terms before the Red Devils signed Antony from Ajax.

United are still interested in signing Gakpo and is set to restart talks, but they will face competition from Arsenal, according to Sky Sports writer Dharmesh Sheth, who is one of several journalists stating that the Gunners have identified the PSV ace as a target.

Man United’s favorite

Mikel Arteta is attempting to derail Manchester United’s projected bid for Gakpo, but journalist Dean Jones believes Manchester United will win the race to get the Dutch forward next year.

Jones stated to GiveMeSport:

“He’s been fantastic for PSV this season, and there’s no doubt he’ll be seeking a move in 2023.” So I still believe he’s a guy worth considering for a move to the Premier League.

“I still believe that Manchester United is more likely to sign him than Arsenal.”

Arteta sorely needs extra firepower in his squad to assist relieve the workload on Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, and Gabriel Jesus, who have all been overworked this season due to Arsenal’s lack of squad depth.

Gakpo would be a great addition to Arsenal because he can play in all three attacking positions. According to TeamTalk, PSV will have to sell if a £40 million offer is made, therefore Gakpo would also be within Arsenal’s budget.

However, Manchester United appears to be the firm favorite to sign the PSV star, who would be a wonderful addition to ten Hag’s side. With Cristiano Ronaldo and Anthony Martial’s futures in doubt, United manager Jose Mourinho needs additional choices in attack, and it appears that Gakpo is a viable replacement.