Cody Gakpo is enjoying a sensational World Cup so far, and has reportedly been watched by Newcastle United scouts ahead of the January transfer window.
The 23-year-old has been Netherlands’ best player, scoring three goals in three games to ensure they topped Group A. That makes him the joint top scorer at the competition so far, alongside Kylian Mbappe, Marcus Rashford and Enner Valencia.
Next up for Louis van Gaal’s side is USA, and the Dutch manager will hope that Gakpo can continue his rich vein of form.
The PSV Eindhoven forward has been one of the stars of the tournament, and is a big reason why Netherlands are still in the competition. They haven’t looked convincing, but Gakpo is flying.
He has found the net in every game, scoring different goals on each occasion. The first was a clever header against Senegal, then he fired a powerful left-footed strike versus Ecuador. Then his third was with his right, firing it low and hard beyond the Qatar goalkeeper.
Gakpo has been a joy to watch, and his form is attracting serious interest.
Newcastle scouting Gakpo
According to the Chronicle, Newcastle scouts have been keeping an eye on Gakpo this season – and at the World Cup. They believe that the Toon recruitment team are watching him in Qatar, and they have to like what they are seeing.
Interestingly, the Chronicle add that Gakpo was a player of interest for Newcastle back when Mike Ashley was the club’s owner.
Obviously back then the club didn’t have the same ambition and resources, but it’s good to know that the scouts had their finger on the pulse. They had also previously looked at Bruno Guimaraes and Sven Botman, who the new owners have brought to St James’ Park.
But can they do the same with Gakpo? It will certainly be very difficult. He was a man in demand over the summer, and interest will only have intensified given his performances in Qatar. Manchester United have been heavily linked with him, and there is the Dutch connection between Gakpo and Red Devils boss Erik ten Hag.
He would be an excellent addition for Newcastle, and is another player who could be part of the club long term. Gakpo has a lot of potential, and is someone who can ‘go to the moon and back‘ with his ability according to Virgil van Dijk.
Newcastle scouts will know that all too well, having watched him at PSV this season where he has 30 goal contributions already this season. Now he’s got three goals at the World Cup, and it would be a dream to see him in a black and white shirt in the future.
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