Arsenal: Edu can scout £38m star 'in person this week' at the Emirates

Arsenal will have the chance to see exciting PSV Eindhoven forward Cody Gakpo ‘up close and personal’ when he takes to the Emirates pitch next week in the Europa League, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

Mikel Arteta’s side have made a fast start to the season and the Gunners will soon have the chance to strengthen their squad in the January transfer window.

Arsenal are among a number of sides monitoring the progress of the 23-year-old and could make their move at the turn of the year, according to The Athletic.

The report adds that Real Madrid and Manchester United are other potential destinations for Gakpo if he is to leave the Dutch giants.

It is understood that PSV were demanding £38 million for the versatile attacker’s signature during the summer transfer window.

Leeds United reportedly pushed hard for his services following the end of last season but fell short in their attempts as PSV decided against cashing in on their talisman.

O'Rourke believes that Thursday night will act as an audition for Gakpo and offer Arteta and director Edu the perfect chance to assess the forward.

The journalist adds that Gakpo could put himself in a good position to seal a permanent switch to the Premier League if he impresses.

O'Rourke told GIVEMESPORT: “What a great opportunity for Edu and Mikel Arteta to have a look at Cody Gakpo, up close and personal. They can see what his strengths are, what his weaknesses are and what he could possibly bring to the Arsenal team when he does come up against them. If Gakpo can make a favourable impression against Arsenal in the Europa League, it's certainly going to increase their desire to sign him.”

Read more: Europa League 2022/23: Fixtures, Group Stage Draw, Dates, Schedule, Final, Teams