Erik ten Hag could now sign World Cup star in January - Man United in talks with agent

Man Utd are reportedly in talks with the agent of Cody Gakpo over a move to Old Trafford - and he could join the club earlier than anticipated.

Developments over Gakpo's future are emerging quickly, with the 23-year-old currently starring at the World Cup in Qatar with Netherlands.

Prominent journalist Fabrizio Romano revealed that his current club, PSV, could sell the player for as little as £43 million, with Liverpool, Arsenal and United amongst the sides credited with an interest in signing him.

Gakpo himself has already revealed to The Times that he held talks with Red Devils boss Erik ten Hag personally over a move in the summer. However, United's eventual bid did not meet PSV's valuation, as per the club's chief executive Marcel Brands.

Earlier this month, Italian journalist Rudy Galletti claimed that they are 'about to finalise the agreement' with PSV and Gakpo - prompting further speculation that a move is close.

And new reports suggest United are now taking further steps to seal a deal - and it may happen sooner than first thought.

United 'in talks' over Gakpo move

On his official Twitter account, Romano has reported that United chiefs are in talks with the agent of Cody Gakpo - who also represents Ten Hag.

Romano tweeted: "There are chances for Cody Gakpo to leave PSV already in January.

"Original plan was to sell him in the summer but could change after excellent World Cup. Man United remain in contact with his agents.

"There are 3/4 clubs in the race."

The January comment could be critical for United, who may have expected PSV to only sell Gakpo in the summer.

PSV are still in the Europa League, having finished second in their group behind Arsenal. They take on Sevilla in the first knockout round play-offs, with the winner qualifying for the last 16 stage.

They are also third in the Eredivisie standings, with Gakpo having scored nine goals and provided 12 assists already this term.

And Gakpo told Dutch outlet NOS earlier this month: "I think at the end of this season I will be ready to take that step.

"I feel like I was already that way at the start of this season, but after this season I'm even more ready to take that next step."

United will surely hope they can get a deal done in January, with Gakpo then potentially able to help them qualify for the Champions League.

The Red Devils will resume their Premier League season in fifth position, three points off the top four places with a game in hand on fourth-placed Tottenham.