According to AD, Leeds United are now in talks with Cody Gakpo about a move to Elland Road.
It probably isn’t a coincidence that the Whites’ interest in Gakpo has intensified at the same time Chelsea seem to be closing in on Raphinha.
This is certainly an interesting one, Gakpo has been linked with Leeds for a few days now, but he wasn’t actually thought to be a priority target – as per Phil Hay on his podcast last week.
However, with Raphinha seemingly on his way, Leeds need a new winger through the door, and Gakpo could certainly act as a brilliant replacement for the Brazilian.
Gakpo has been a real standout performer in the Netherlands this season. He scored 19 goals and assisted a further 14, while his exploits domestically earned him the Eredivisie Player of the Year award.
The winger beat some stern opposition for this award including Arsenal target Lisandro Martinez and new Borussia Dortmund striker Sebastien Haller.
Gakpo’s PSV didn’t win the league, but he was well worthy of this award as he grabbed 12 goals and 13 assists in just 22 domestic league starts.
Of course, good performances in the Netherlands don’t necessarily equate to Premier League success.
For every Luis Suarez and Jan Vertonghen that has won the Eredivisie’s Player of the Year award there’s a Karim El Ahmadi and a Davy Klaasen – all in all, it’s fair to say that talents from the Dutch league can be rather hit and miss.
However, standing at 6ft 2, Gakpo should be more than ready for the physical rigours of the Premier League, while he’s certainly good enough on the ball. After all, it’s previously been said that he’s a player who ‘has everything’, so it shouldn’t be too tough for him to adapt to life in England.
If Leeds land Gakpo, he’ll certainly be one to watch next season.
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