Cody Gakpo’s stance on joining Manchester United revealed as Erik ten Hag link emerges

Cody Gakpo has responded favourably to Manchester United’s approach and would welcome a move to Old Trafford this summer, according to reports.

The Red Devils are ramping up their efforts to bring in new players before the transfer deadline at the end of the month, with their Premier League opening weekend defeat at home to Brighton underlining the need for reinforcements.

Erik ten Hag has long wanted to add a new attacker to his frontline options, though met resistance when he tried to take Brazilian winger Antony with him from Ajax.

There were suggestions the Eredivisie champions would only accept an offer in the region of £80million, meaning United’s efforts to bring in a winger were put on the backburner while more pressing positions were focused on – such as midfield.

But the match against Brighton highlighted the need for a new attacker, with Ten Hag forced to field Christian Eriksen as a false nine due to Anthony Martial’s injury and Cristiano Ronaldo’s lack of sharpness.

United have now turned their attention to another Eredivisie talent to bolster their ailing frontline, with PSV Eindhoven’s young forward Gakpo the player they have set their sights on.

Reports emerged on Tuesday claiming United were preparing a £35m move for the 23-year-old – and they are likely to meet significantly less resistance than other targets they have pursued this summer.

According to The Telegraph, Gakpo has welcomed United’s interest and would be keen to link up with countryman Ten Hag at Old Trafford.

Although the Red Devils have yet to open formal talks with his representatives, there are no fears that he would prefer to stay at PSV – where he has a guaranteed starting berth – ahead of this winter’s World Cup.

United have already missed out