Transfer Talk: Gakpo gathering interest from Europe's elite

The January transfer window is inching closer — and Europe's elite are already circling Cody Gakpo. 

Interest in the forward is no surprise given his impressive tally of nine goals and 12 assists for PSV Eindhoven in the Eredivisie this season. 

The 23-year-old star has carried his club form with him to the World Cup, scoring twice in as many matches for the Netherlands. 

Ahead of their final group game against Qatar, we take a look at where Gakpo may end up and what he brings to the table.

Mane replacement

In selling Sadio Mane to Bayern Munich last summer, Liverpool lost a key component of their fearsome attacking unit. 

Darwin Nunez has been brought in — providing a different kind of attacking thrust with his runs in behind — but Mane's absence is still felt. 

Gakpo is of a similar profile to the Senegal star, capable of operating both on the left-hand side and as a central striker. 

The Netherlands international would certainly bolster Liverpool’s attacking options as they look to improve in the second half of the season.

United interest

Manchester United have held a long-standing interest in Gakpo. 

In fact, the 23-year-old admitted in October that he came close to signing for the Red Devils last summer. 

He said: "I was close to leaving [PSV], I spoke to Erik ten Hag a few times at Manchester United. 

"In the end, the deal didn’t go through, which was a shame for me and my development, because Manchester United is one of the biggest clubs in the world. 

"But also for PSV, because to transfer a player to Manchester United is a good thing for the club." 

It certainly seems as though he remains open to a move and United's interest is unlikely to have cooled after his impressive performances in Qatar.

Chelsea lurking

Chelsea have struggled in attack this season, only scoring 17 Premier League goals — the 13th-worst tally in the division. 

The Blues have a documented history of solving problems with shiny new signings and Gakpo would certainly fit the bill. 

However, reports suggest that Chelsea have lined up a deal for RB Leipzig’s Christopher Nkunku, which may reduce the likelihood of the London side moving for a second attacking addition.

Arsenal to flex their muscles?

Mikel Arteta has transformed Arsenal into one of the best attacking sides in the world.

But in order to maintain their recent form, they may well need to bolster their ranks. 

Adding Gakpo is a mouth-watering prospect and his presence could be valuable competition for Gunners striker Gabriel Jesus. 

The Brazilian has not scored in his last six Premier League games and Gakpo’s clinical finishing would provide an alternative source of goals.

Barcelona dream

Premier League clubs are not the only ones with an interest in Gakpo, who has previously revealed that he grew up idolising Barcelona players. 

The Catalan side have seemed happy to spend big regardless of their reported financial struggles and could consider a move for the Netherlands international. 

Barca splashed out on Ferran Torres and Raphinha this year but Gakpo would add even greater depth as they look to beat Real Madrid to the league title.