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Joe Cole predicts Arsenal will face a serious transfer battle for Cody Gakpo, who is currently plying his trade at PSV Eindhoven in the Netherlands.
THE LOWDOWN: SHINING LIGHT AT THE WORLD CUP
While on commentary duty for ITV on the Netherlands vs Qatar game, Joe Cole made a bold transfer verdict regarding Cody Gakpo.
Gakpo started the season on a strong note after his amazing performance in the 2021/22 season. He has taken that form to Qatar and is proving to be a strong contender the player of the tournament thus far.
His three goals have helped the Netherlands tip their group and qualify for the round of 16, where they will face USA. But while he is focused on making the most of his first World Cup appearance, there is an ongoing transfer battle between a number of clubs.
After sounding him out following his breakthrough 2021/22 season, Arsenal, Manchester United and a few other clubs have started making contacts to secure his signature in January.
THE LATEST: TOUGH BATTLE PREDICTED
After a decent showing already at the World Cup, Cole believes Gakpo’s price tag would only increase even further and he predicts a tough transfer tussle for the youngster’s signature.
Cole said after the game: “He has [put his name out there].
“I know there have been scouts watching him, he has come to the tournament and he is fearless. Great movement for the goal and fantastic finishing. He is going to be on everyone’s wish list.”
Asked if he would pay £80 million for the forward, he responded in the affirmative. “I would, 100 percent,” he answered.
“Because he’s young, we know there is value in youth, if he doesn’t quite work out you are going to cut your losses elsewhere but he looks like the real deal.
“I know it’s Qatar, I know it’s not one of the strongest nations but against Ecuador he scored, against Senegal he scored, he affects the game and players who affect the game, that is where the value is.
“I really like him, I have liked what I have seen at PSV and I am pretty sure there will be some offers on the door at PSV in January.”
THE VERDICT: FAIR ASSESSMENT
Cody Gakpo was already highly-rated even before the World Cup but it is now fair to say his transfer valuation would go up. Arsenal are in the market for signings but his price tag will surely come as a turnoff to the club’s hierarchy.
Manchester United and Chelsea will fancy their chances of signing the Dutch star, except he decides to join another club entirely.
