Man Utd to hold transfer talks in 'the coming days' over key player, he's just what Ten Hag needs

Manchester United are reportedly set to hold talks in the coming days over a bid to sign Cody Gakpo.

Gakpo has emerged as one of the World Cup’s most impressive players, with three goals in four games for the Netherlands at the tournament.

The 23-year-old has been a key part of Louis van Gaal’s attack. His outstanding performances have been a driving force behind the Dutch side getting to the World Cup quarter-finals.

Gakpo’s performances have understandably caught the attention of the biggest clubs in Europe, and it is reported that Manchester United are especially interested in the Dutch player.

The Premier League side are set to hold talks in the next few days over a potential bid to sign Gakpo, according to the Daily Mail.

Clubs interested in Gakpo, but not for the first time

Gakpo may have just established himself on the world stage in Qatar but there was already an intense battle for him over the summer transfer window.

The Athletic reported that Leeds United were close to signing Gakpo in the summer and talks redirected to a move in January, but Gakpo’s incredible club form and rise within the national team may have changed his expectations of his next club.

Real Madrid and Arsenal are also rumoured to be interested, and the Daily Mail reported that Southampton also bid for Gakpo towards the end of the summer transfer window.

A player who fits the bill at Manchester United

United’s rumoured interest in Gakpo could be partially caused by the absence of an attacking player in their squad, following the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo.

Gakpo is a versatile player, comfortable as a centre forward and on both wings. The fact that he can play centrally could be essential to a side lacking a number nine.

Erik ten Hag is also no stranger to investing in players from the Eredivisie. Antony and Lisandro Martinez were key players at Ajax, whilst Tyrell Malacia signed from Feyenoord. Ten Hag himself is also no stranger to Dutch football, having won the Eredivisie three times as Ajax manager.

United’s apparent interest in Gakpo certainly makes sense, but they are definitely not alone.