Ten Hag gives further hint Gakpo to Man Utd is ON

Cameron Smith

• Updated: 23 Dec 2022 19:03 GMT
• 3 min read

Cody Gakpo looks set to join Manchester United from PSV Eindhoven in the January transfer window, with Red Devils boss Erik ten Hag intensifying transfer links during his pre-Nottingham Forest press conference.

Man Utd return to Premier League action with a home clash with lowly Forest on December 27, with Ten Hag answering questions from the press ahead of the game.

When asked about Gakpo's form at the World Cup, Ten Hag simply replied: "There were many, many good players in the World Cup."

READ: Van Nistelrooy won't block Gakpo Man Utd transfer

Gakpo, 23, scored three goals as The Netherlands reached the quarter-final stage before being knocked out by eventual winners Argentina on penalties. All three goals were scored in the group stages as his country topped Group A.

His performances in Qatar led to increased rumours of a January move away, with Man Utd deemed the most likely destination with Ten Hag keen to tap into the Eredivisie market after signing Tyrell Malacia, Lisandro Martinez and Antony from the Dutch league during the summer.

READ: PSV coach wants Man Utd-target Cody Gakpo to stay

Ruud Van Nistelrooy on Gapko future?

Man Utd legend Ruud van Nistelrooy, now PSV's manager, revealed recently: "There comes a time when you can't say no" following speculation of Gakpo leaving to join Man Utd.

Ten Hag responded to the Dutchman with a big smile on his face, saying: "Van Nistelrooy says there’s a point when you can’t say no to bids? You can say that for many players!"

His reaction to being questioned about Van Nistelrooy's comments was telling, and further hinted that Gakpo is likely to move to Old Trafford next month.

Cristiano Ronaldo's exit before the World Cup has left the Red Devils short in forward areas and it's believed Gakpo is the man to fix their issues in attack.

He currently has 30 goals and assists in just 24 appearances in all competitions this season.