Arsenal: 55-goal star has 'impressed recruitment team' at the Emirates

Arsenal target Cody Gakpo ‘can only have impressed’ the Emirates Stadium outfit’s recruitment team with his performances for PSV Eindhoven this season, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

The Gunners were not afraid to splash the cash during the summer, having parted with close to £120million, but boss Mikel Arteta and technical director Edu could secure further reinforcements when the transfer window reopens in January.

According to The Athletic, Arsenal are among a number of clubs monitoring Gakpo’s progress and could test PSV’s resolve at the turn of the year.

The report suggests Leeds United came close to reaching an agreement with the the nine-cap Netherlands international recently, only for him to snub a switch to Elland Road, while Real Madrid is another potential destination and Manchester United considered making a move during the summer.

It is understood that the Red Devils previously agreed personal terms with Gakpo and he was unwilling to rush into a deadline day move to another Premier League club due to initially believing he would seal a switch to Erik ten Hag’s side.

The winger has not allowed the speculation over his future to detract from his performances and, instead, has racked up 23 goal contributions in 17 appearances this season.

Despite being overlooked by Gakpo in recent weeks, Leeds have reportedly maintained their interest and made him their top January target.

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O'Rourke believes Arsenal are keeping a close eye on Gakpo and their interest will have been strengthened thanks to his output on the pitch this term.

The journalist feels the upcoming World Cup, which gets underway in Qatar