Gakpo and De Jong link up shows what could have been at Man Utd

Suraj Radia

• Updated: 23 May 2023 08:56 CDT
• 2 min read

Cody Gakpo netted for the Netherlands in their World Cup opener against Senegal, with Frenkie de Jong grabbing the assist and perhaps giving Manchester United a glimpse of Erik ten Hag’s vision.

Both players were heavily linked to United in the summer and they paired up for the first goal as Gakpo nodded in De Jong’s cross before Davy Klaassen sealed the win.

Gakpo is the most productive player in Europe this season, contributing to 33 goals in all competitions for PSV ahead of the January transfer window.

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United had scouted the winger all summer but opted to sign Ajax’s Antony instead, however they could still revisit a move for Gakpo, with the player desperate to make the step up.

De Jong, meanwhile, turned down the chance to join United but is reportedly more open to a renewed move, with Barcelona crashing out of the Champions League and set to face Ten Hag’s side in the Europa League knockouts.

With both players at the heart of Holland’s success, the pair’s connection could inspire United to splash the cash on both and replicate the impressive link-up at club level.

Dutch stars in demand

Gakpo was reportedly disappointed to miss out on a move to United in the summer and opted to stay at PSV despite late bids from Leeds and Southampton.

The 23-year-old was hoping to attract the attention of a bigger side and he has backed up his desires in prolific style, with United, Arsenal and Liverpool all now considering a move.

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Gakpo was not the only Oranje star on the radar of major clubs, with the likes of Denzel Dumfries and Memphis Depay also featuring against Senegal hoping to impress watching scouts.

In truth, the Netherlands lacked quality before Gakpo’s 84th minute strike and left plenty of room for improvement but the forward created more chances than any other player and did his prospects no harm.

De Jong was also integral, having the most touches of any Dutch player and the Barca man will need to continue his dominance in order to lead Louis van Gaal’s side to glory.