PSV star Gakpo hails impact of Manchester United legend Van Nistelrooy amid transfer links

In-demand PSV captain Cody Gakpo has hailed Manchester United icon Ruud van Nistelrooy for his role in aiding the 22-year-old's development.

The forward has 17 goals and 15 assists this season across all competitions for the Eredivisie challengers warranting speculation linking him with moves to the Premier League. Van Nistelrooy enjoyed a successful spell at Old Trafford under Sir Alex Ferguson winning the Premier League and FA Cup with the Reds.

Gakpo captains PSV and has worked with the legendary striker since his youth days in Eindhoven. Should he stay put this summer, amid links elsewhere, Gakpo will line up under Van Nistelrooy with the 45-year-old set to take charge of the club at the end of the season.

"Van Nistelrooy was my striker trainer in the academy. I have learned a lot from him and I look up to him," Gakpo said via the Mirror.

"He's spoken to me about how to finish in certain situations and it helped me a lot. He told me some tricks on shooting and keeping my options open.

"Shoot low and hard, not beautiful and high. A goal is a goal, you know, I am grateful he did."