According to Aaron Catterson-Reid of Football.London, Arsenal have joined the race for PSV winger Cody Gakpo, as they look to bolster the squad for the fast-approaching 2022/23 season.
Catterson-Reid claims Mikel Arteta is a big fan of the player.
At just 23 years old, Gakpo has already become one of the key players for his PSV side, helping them finish just two points off the top spot in the Eredivisie last season.
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has made it clear that the Gunners will still be active this transfer window, even after signing Oleksandr Zinchenko for £30 million from Man City, and now has turned his intentions to the Dutch winger.
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However, Arsenal would have to beat out interest from elsewhere, including the likes of Man City, Liverpool and Leeds.
Reports at the start of the month stated a fee within the region of £34 million might be enough to allow PSV to let go of Gakpo, though now it seems they will do all they can to keep a hold of him.
In an interview with Voetbal International, PSV technical director John de Jong revealed:
“Keeping Cody Gakpo at PSV is now top priority."
"I can’t say how difficult this will be at the moment.”
Gakpo has previously made clear his appreciation for Arsenal legend Thierry Henry, and how much he likes Arsenal as a club.
The Dutch international scored 21 times for his side last season, along with 15 assists throughout 46 games in all competitions.
He has also already played 7 times for the Netherlands, scoring twice.
The 23-year-old would provide great versatility for Arsenal, as he can play both on the left and right-wing.
He's also featured as a centre forward at times.
His main role for PSV is usually on the left side and is known for his ability to take on defenders with his speed and dribbling skills.
As a right footed player, he also likes to cut inside and take shots on where possible.
The left-wing spot is a position Arsenal can certainly look to improve on, as it is usually occupied by young star Gabriel Martinelli, but behind him there is not much depth.
The Gunners have been busy this summer, with Matt Turner, Marquinhos, Fabio Vieira, Gabriel Jesus and Oleksandr Zinchenko already signed.
Arsenal kick off their Premier League campaign with a trip to Selhurst Park against Crystal Palace in just two weeks’ time, but Arteta has stated that he hopes the squad is complete before the season begins.
Topics: Arsenal, Mikel Arteta, PSV, Transfers
Alex Merson