Aheed Abrar
Manchester United can afford one of Antony or Cody Gakpo; deal for Ajax forward difficult
Two Eredivisie wingers, Antony and Cody Gakpo, are on the shortlist of Manchester United. However, the Red Devils can only afford one of them, with a deal for the Brazilian looking difficult after Ajax rejected a £67.9 million bid.
According to The Telegraph (Subscription Required) [h/t Manchester Evening News], United seemingly only have the budget to sign one of Antony and Gakpo. While the Red Devils are interested in both the players, the duo making their way to Old Trafford in the same window looks unlikely.
It’s also claimed via The Mirror (h/t Express) that United have given up on adding Antony to the squad as the Amsterdam-based club want £80 million for their South American superstar. And the PSV forward is the alternative to reinforce Erik ten Hag’s side.
Man United’s attacking woes
The Manchester-based club have struggled in their first two games of the 2022/23 season. While the defence has been culpable in letting in goals, the lacklustre attack hasn’t done the team any favours.
Our players haven’t managed to score a goal either against Brighton & Hove Albion or Brentford. The only ball that has been put in the back of the net in United’s favour has been an own goal.
Depth in the forward line is evidently an issue. Ten Hag’s options up front for the centre-forward position include Cristiano Ronaldo and Anthony Martial. The 37-year-old came late for pre-season while the Frenchman picked up an injury during pre-season.
During the Dutch manager’s first competitive game in the Old Trafford dugout against Brighton, Ten Hag started Christian Eriksen as the number nine. Ronaldo was on the bench while Martial was sidelined.
More Manchester United News
- Cristiano Ronaldo looks to stay at Manchester United this season
- Leicester City are interested in Manchester United midfielder James Garner
- Transfer News: Five Premier League clubs are interested in Scott McTominay
United fans have been crying out for more quality in the attack with Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho faltering. With the deadline for the transfer window getting closer, the Red Devils need to act fast with the Antony and Gakpo deals.
