PSV Eindhoven have set a price tag for in-demand attacker Cody Gakpo, as Arsenal and Leeds United will need to pay €45 million for the Dutchman.
According to Fabrizio Romano via Caught Offside, Arsenal and Leeds United target Cody Gakpo will cost around €45 million. Both clubs remain keen on signing the in-demand PSV Eindhoven attacker, although manager Ruud van Nistelrooy is eager to keep the Dutch international on board for next season.
Cody Gakpo was one of Arsenal’s early targets in this window, only for the north Londoners to recruit in other areas and swiftly turn their attention towards another wide attacker in Raphinha. However, the Gunners’ chase for the Brazilian proved unsuccessful, as the former Leeds United talisman joined Barcelona.
With that failed pursuit, Arsenal at least revealed their intention to sign a new wide attacker and showed readiness to pay up huge sums to acquire such a player. In addition, there have been links with some high-profile players like Serge Gnabry, Leroy Sane, and Moussa Diaby, although none of them might be achievable for various reasons.
The Gunners have Bukayo Saka, Emile Smith Rowe, Gabriel Martinelli, and Nicolas Pepe as their current wide attackers. However, Pepe is likely to leave Arsenal amid interest from Newcastle United, Leeds United and others. And Mikel Arteta wants a new player to replace the Ivory Coast international.
Gakpo is being considered again by the Gunners, despite the Dutchman primarily playing on the left flank. The Dutch winger can play across the three frontline and do a job on either flank and fits the profile of a player Arteta wants. PSV manager Ruud van Nistelrooy is eager to keep Gakpo in his squad beyond the summer. The player’s qualities were evident last term when he amassed 21 goals and 15 assists in all competitions.
Alternatively, PSV could be open to a sale if interested clubs shell out up to €45 million. Admittedly, the price might be a bit steep, but the Dutch giants are not prepared to bring the price down. Meanwhile, Leeds United are also among those interested, as Jesse Marsch continues his search to replace Raphinha.
The Whites desperately need a quality player in place of the Brazilian, and they would ideally like to bring in someone before the season begins. Leeds are also looking at other options, with Martin Terrier among a host of players on their radar. However, the Whites could be put off by PSV’s €45 million asking price, which may not be affordable for them now.
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While Arsenal could be a realistic contender for Gakpo, Leeds may look at alternatives between now and the end of the window. Nevertheless, Gakpo could be a shrewd acquisition for the Gunners, who have the budget to accommodate the in-demand Dutch attacker.
