Leeds ‘can forget about’ deal for £38m star at Elland Road

Leeds United came as close as they ever will to signing PSV Eindhoven winger Cody Gakpo in the summer transfer window, with the 23-year-old attracting plenty of interest following a strong start to the season, according to journalist Dean Jones.

Jesse Marsch bolstered his squad by spending more than £90 million on new recruits but failed to land one of his most exciting targets.

What is the latest on Gakpo?

The West Yorkshire giants made a late bid to land the versatile forward during the latest transfer window, with director of football Victor Orta flying out for face-to-face talks, according to The Athletic.

But, the report adds, in the end, the Dutch giants decided against cashing in on their prized asset, with Gakpo himself also happy to stay.

Manchester United were interested in his services, with it understood that Red Devils were quoted a price of £38 million.

It is reported that Leeds continued their pursuit of the player beyond the deadline but the player now has his sights set on a move to either United or Real Madrid in the future.

What has Jones said on Leeds’ chances?

Jones believes that, while the club came close to landing Gakpo during the summer transfer window, they are unlikely to get as close as that again.

The journalist believes that the upcoming World Cup will likely only see his price rise further as the eyes of the world are exposed to his talents.

Jones told GIVEMESPORT: “I just think Gakpo is going to be such a hard get now. I know they nearly got him in the summer, but I’ve got a feeling that will be as close as they’ll ever get. He’s been in such good form. We’ve got to consider too, that he’s going to the World Cup as part of a good side and if he has a good World Cup, then I think they can forget about it, to be honest.”

Read more: Carabao (EFL) Cup 2022/23: Dates, Schedule, Draw, Ball Numbers, Odds And Everything You Need To Know

How has Gakpo performed this season?

It is easy to see why Jones believes Leeds have a fight on their hands to land Gakpo in future windows.

This season has seen the forward already find the back of the net 13 times in just 16 appearances, adding a further 10 assists to his haul as well.

That good form stretched into the international break, too, scoring one and laying on another in clashes with Poland and Belgium.

You can find all the latest football news and rumours right here.

News Now – Sport News