Leeds ‘definitely still interested’ in 52-goal star at Elland Road | OneFootball

Leeds United are ‘definitely still interested’ in PSV Eindhoven forward Cody Gakpo, according to Sky Sports reporter Tim Thornton.

Gakpo was one of the most in-demand stars during the summer transfer window, but he ended up staying put at the Philips Stadion despite plenty of potential Premier League suitors.

What is the latest news involving Gakpo?

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano revealed on deadline day that Leeds were at the front of the queue for Gakpo’s signature, leading domestic rivals Southampton despite neither side having a bid accepted.

English giants Manchester United had previously been linked with a £35 million swoop for the clinical finisher before the arrival of Antony at Old Trafford ended their pursuit.

That left Leeds and the Saints to battle it out for Gakpo, yet the west Yorkshire outfit ended up signing Wilfried Gnonto from FC Zurich, while Southampton refused to match PSV’s asking price.

Romano has since reported that Jesse Marsch’s charges are ‘planning to push again’ for the Netherlands international in January as speculation over his long-term future refuses to die down.

Gakpo has made an incredible start to 2022/23, though, registering 10 goals and nine assists in just 13 appearances for PSV, meaning Leeds could face extensive competition for his signature.

What has Thornton said about Gakpo?

Thornton believes that if Gakpo enjoys a productive World Cup ahead of the winter window, then that could be a ‘problem’ for Leeds.

He told GiveMeSport: “The problem that Leeds will have is the World Cup, and if he has a really, really good World Cup.

“They tried to get him in the previous window and get the deal done, for whatever reason, it didn’t get done. Leeds are definitely still interested, but it remains to be seen whether that interest means they can get the signing done.”

Where would Gakpo fit in?

Gakpo, who has racked up 52 goals for PSV throughout his senior career, is comfortable playing upfront as well as in his favoured left-wing position.

Currently, Leeds only have two natural wingers in their first-team squad in the shape of Jack Harrison and Luis Sinisterra after Raphinha departed for Barcelona on a permanent basis and Dan James joined Fulham on loan over the summer.

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However, both Harrison and Sinisterra also prefer the left-hand side, raising questions over where Marsch plans to use Gakpo should he arrive at Leeds.

The 6 foot 2 gem could provide cover and competition for Patrick Bamford upfront, although the likes of Gnonto, Joe Gelhardt and Sonny Perkins are already pushing for more game time.