Orta ‘will have plan in place’ to find next Gakpo at Elland Road

Leeds United director of football Victor Orta ‘will have plans in place’ to unearth another gem after missing out on luring PSV Eindhoven star Cody Gakpo to Elland Road during the summer, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

The Whites are two points clear of the Premier League’s relegation zone, but boss Jesse Marsch could bolster his squad next month.

Leeds transfer news – Cody Gakpo

In an interview with Dutch media outlet NRC, Gakpo has revealed that he snubbed an approach from Leeds during the closing stages of the summer transfer window.

The winger has also suggested that, in a further blow to the Yorkshire side, he would consider a move to rivals Manchester United if they head to the negotiating table during the early stages of 2023.

Orta travelled to the Netherlands in an attempt to thrash out a deal as the summer deadline neared, but PSV opted against offloading their talisman.

It seems that stance is set to change though, as the Eredivisie giants have now set a £50million asking price and Manchester United are preparing to swoop.

Gakpo got his name on the scoresheet in each of the Netherlands’ group stage fixtures against Senegal, Ecuador and Qatar at the World Cup.

Read more: January Transfer Window 2023: When Does It Begin, Rumours and Everything You Need To Know

What has Pete O’Rourke said about Gakpo?

O’Rourke believes Gakpo’s form since Leeds’ initial pursuit will result in there being optimism that the Whites are targeting the right individuals.

The journalist feels Orta will be looking to unearth another rising star ahead of potentially negotiating some eye-catching deals during the January transfer window.

O’Rourke told GIVEMESPORT: “Obviously, for Leeds, it does give them a bit of confidence that they are looking at the right players who have huge potential to become big, big players in the future.

“Victor Orta is very well renowned in the transfer market and I’m sure he will have plans in place to see if Leeds can find another gem or maybe try and unearth the next potential top player that could come to Elland Road and make a real name for himself.”

Who could Leeds sign in January?

According to Spanish sources, Leeds have joined the race to sign Atletico Madrid striker Matheus Cunha.

However, it appears that the Whites will find it difficult to lure the Brazilian to Elland Road as the report suggests Wolverhampton Wanderers are at the front of the queue for his signature, while Aston Villa and Everton are also mulling over whether to lodge a bid.

TEAMtalk have revealed that Leeds are firm admirers of Raphael Guerreiro and already lining up a contract offer as the left-back approaches the final six months of his Borussia Dortmund deal.

The report suggests the 28-year-old is a top target for the Yorkshire outfit, while Serie A giants Juventus are also on his trail.

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