Philips Stadion, Eindhoven, Netherlands - October 21, 2021. PSV Eindhoven's Cody Gakpo celebrates scoring.
Southampton are now ‘unlikely’ to sign PSV Eindhoven winger Cody Gakpo in January, according to transfer insider Fabrizio Romano.
The Lowdown: Summer approach rejected
Premier League clubs Manchester United, Leeds and Everton, alongside the south coast outfit, had all been credited with an interest in the 23-year-old over the summer after an impressive debut season under Ruud van Nistelrooy.
The Saints even made a late deadline day approach for the Dutchman, though this was rejected as a result of the two parties still being apart in valuation.
The Latest: Gakpo stance revealed
Taking to Twitter, Romano confirmed that Southampton were planning to make another offer for Gakpo in the New Year, though his stance has now altered, making it difficult to negotiate a deal.
“Cody Gakpo is doing fantastic with PSV. His transfer situation has now changed: Leeds and Southampton wanted to bid again for January but that kind of move looks unlikely.
“Top European clubs are interested in signing Gakpo in 2023.”
The Verdict: Blow for Hasenhuttl
Missing out on Gakpo will come as a sucker punch to Ralph Hasenhuttl, who will know the impact he could have had on his side at St. Mary’s.
The forward has made 102 goal contributions in just 156 appearances for PSV and offers plenty of versatility, having previously operated in midfield and as a centre-forward, alongside his natural position on the flank.
The Saints boss will now have to look elsewhere in January to find a suitable Gakpo alternative, though it will be hard to find someone half as talented.
Should Southampton make another offer for Gakpo?
Yes
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