According to Fabrizio Romano, Leeds United are now “leading the race” for Cody Gakpo, with Southampton also interested in the winger. PSV Eindhoven have also offered the Dutchman a contract, with neither side of the agreement having made a firm decision on Gakpo’s future.
Leeds United ‘Leading the Race’ for Cody Gakpo
Who Else Is in the Race for Cody Gakpo?
The Whites’ biggest competitor in the race for the attacker is Southampton. The Saints submitted a bid for the wide man earlier on and are awaiting a response from both PSV Eindhoven and Cody Gakpo.
In response to Southampton’s interest, Victor Orta (the Director of Football at Elland Road) acted quickly. A private flight from Leeds to Eindhoven and back was booked, with the expert negotiator having experience in presenting moves to players in significant amounts of detail. If Orta has gone to the Netherlands, Leeds United are in pole position for the move.
Leeds are now leading the race to sign Cody Gakpo! PSV have still not accepted any bid from Southampton or Leeds but #LUFC now pushing to get it done. 🚨⚪️ #transfers
Fight still open, but Leeds are trying to tempt Gakpo despite Southampton proposal. pic.twitter.com/E7SQ1IEPJl
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 31, 2022
Who Is Cody Gakpo?
There is no better way to sum up Cody Gakpo than, when already under the pressure of lining up a move, scoring a hat-trick on Eindhoven’s 109th anniversary. The Dutchman is a winger that cuts inside, firing off shots and laying off passes to his strike partners.
A player of his profile is perfect for Leeds United’s current tactical setup. Under Jesse Marsch, the Peacocks play a brand of narrow football, getting shots off from central areas and manufacturing opportunities as soon as possible after winning turnovers. A pacy and creative winger is the perfect buy for the Elland Road hierarchy.
Why Is a Move More Likely Now?
There are several reasons that a move for Cody Gakpo is far more likely now. Leeds United owner Andrea Radrizzani liking a Tweet suggesting that the club are in for the winger was the first step in the move, which has snowballed since then. With two London clubs lining up to acquire Dan James, the Dutchman has an incredible amount of talent and potential to grow that could be a major upgrade at Elland Road.
