Man United identify Cody Gakpo plan B as ten Hag could hijack Chelsea's move for deadly winger

Manchester United have reportedly identified a 'plan B' in case they cannot sign PSV star Cody Gakpo - and could launch a move for Chelsea target Rafael Leao.

Gakpo has been heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford in recent months, with the player himself claiming in an interview with The Times that he held talks with United boss Erik ten Hag last summer.

However, as confirmed by PSV chief executive Marcel Brands, the Red Devils' bid for the 23-year-old didn't match the Dutch giants' valuation.

Gakpo has impressed at the World Cup, scoring in each of Netherlands' three group games, and has nine goals and 12 assists to his name in 14 Eredivisie appearances this term. He also has three goals and three assists in five Europa League games.

Fabrizio Romano claims that £43 million could be enough to bring the forward to Old Trafford. However, it is unclear as to whether PSV will sanction a sale of one of their star players mid-season.

Therefore, United are reportedly looking at other options in case their top target doesn't join in the upcoming window.

Man Utd keen on Rafael Leao

According to ESPN, club chiefs are keeping tabs on AC Milan's Rafael Leao as a 'plan B' to Gakpo.

The Portugal international, who is also currently at the World Cup, has starred for Milan this term, scoring six goals and providing four assists in 14 Serie A appearances.

Primarily featuring on the left side of attack for Milan, Leao can play across the front three. That could make him a valuable option for the Red Devils, with Chelsea also said to be interested in the player.

His current deal expires in 2024, with talks ongoing over an extension.

Speaking earlier this week, Leao told reporters in Qatar (as quoted by Fabrizio Romano): "I will speak to AC Milan about my contract situation once the World Cup is over.

"We had a positive meeting with [Milan technical director] Paolo Maldini before the World Cup. It was a good one - we'll enter into details after the break."

The Italian giants will be desperate to keep hold of one of their star players as they chase a second consecutive Scudetto.

They currently sit in second place in the table, eight points behind leaders Napoli, but will hope to close the gap when the division resumes after the conclusion of the World Cup.