Manchester United hold a ‘slight advantage’ in the race to sign Netherlands star Cody Gakpo, according to journalist Marco Timmer.

The Lowdown: ‘Agreement in principle’

Gakpo is currently starring at the World Cup in Qatar and is preparing for a quarter-final clash with Argentina this evening.

The 23-year-old has scored three times in four games on the biggest stage, with recent reports suggesting that the Red Devils have reached an ‘agreement in principle’ with the forward.

The Latest: Timmer’s comments

Sports Witness relayed comments from Voetbal International reporter Timmer on Thursday regarding Gakpo.

He believes that United ‘have a slight advantage’ in the race for Gakpo, who has the same agency as Erik ten Hag, and said that the player's agent will hold talks with numerous clubs after the World Cup.

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The Verdict: Get it done

Timmer also added that the Red Devils need a replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo, so a January swoop for Gakpo seems to be a no-brainer.

Hailed as a 'sensational player' by Football Oranje editor and Dutch football expert Michael Bell, Gakpo has contributed to 30 goals in just 24 games for PSV this season.

He can play anywhere across the front three and is valued at a career-high €45m by Transfermarkt, so the New Year could be the perfect time to get a move over the line.