Talented Man United winger could leave in January, may open up Gakpo deal

Anthony Elanga could leave Manchester United in January, opening the door for the Old Trafford club to sign Cody Gakpo.

Sweden international Elanga has started just five Premier League games this season, with the 20-year-old behind Antony, Marcus Rashford, Anthony Martial, Jadon Sancho and Alejandro Garnacho in the pecking order.

With Erik ten Hag also reportedly keen to bring in Netherland star Gakpo from PSV Eindhoven, Elanga is likely to secure a loan move elsewhere.

Elanga on loan?

The Daily Mail has claimed that Elanga is “in demand”, with a host of unnamed clubs chasing a loan deal for the 20-year-old.

One team said to have been interested in Elanga last summer was Everton, who wanted to sign the player on loan.

The Toffees were ultimately rebuffed by United, who decided to keep the Sweden international despite also securing the signing of Antony from Ajax.

Gakpo to United?

Elanga’s move away could be sparked by United’s interests in Gakpo.

The Telegraph claim that ten Hag’s side will bid £43.1million for the Netherlands star, who scored three times at the World Cup.

Indeed the 23-year-old is said to have been lined up as a replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo, whose contract was terminated on the eve of the World Cup following the five-time Ballon d’Or winner’s criticism of United and their manager.

In turn, Ten Hag has reportedly prioritised bringing in another forward in January, with Gakpo thought to be top of the wishlist. The PSV star has been in scintillating form for his club, having scored 13 times and provided 17 assists so far this term.

Moreover, during the Netherlands’ involvement at the World Cup, Gakpo admitted he was interested in moving to Old Trafford. “

He said: “If Manchester United come I will think about it.”