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Zlatan tips Man Utd's Elanga to be a star 'for next 20 years'
Manchester United agreed personal terms with the representatives of Cody Gakpo but Anthony Elanga played a role in the deal failing to materialise, according to reports. The PSV Eindhoven star was eager to move to Old Trafford back in the summer transfer window. However, he ended up staying in the Eredivisie instead - despite also being linked with the likes of Leeds and Southampton.
Manchester United were heavily linked with Gakpo towards the end of the summer transfer window, at a time where Erik ten Hag was looking to bolster his attack.
And, according to The Athletic, the Red Devils agreed personal terms with the 24-year-old’s representatives.
However, several factors prevented a deal for the Netherlands international being struck in the end.
One was that United were always prioritising Antony and, being aware it would take a huge bid to land the player from Ajax, the budget didn’t stretch to two attacking arrivals.
The Red Devils forked out a huge £84.5million to land the Brazil international, who then proceeded to score against Arsenal on his debut in a fine 3-1 win at Old Trafford.
Man Utd star Anthony Elanga prevented Cody Gakpo transfer from being struck (Image: GETTY)
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The Sweden international attracted interest from Leicester back in the summer, with the Foxes believing United might be open to letting the 20-year-old leave on loan.
But with United choosing to keep hold of the youngster, that ultimately meant they wouldn’t be bringing Gakpo in.
It’s claimed United decided to retain Shola Shoretire, too, with Ten Hag believing the 18-year-old would benefit from staying and training with the first team.
However, it’s unknown if he’d have been sent on loan if they’d been able to recruit Antony far earlier.
Whether the Red Devils choose to reignite interest in Gakpo further down the line remains to be seen, especially given how well-stocked they are for attackers.
But the Netherlands international has been in fine form for PSV this season scoring seven goals and clocking up three assists from just seven Eredivisie matches.
That includes a hat-trick he managed in a 7-1 hammering of FC Volendam at the end of August.
And Gakpo has scored on both of his last two appearances, against FC Bodoe/Glimt and RKC Waalwijk.
The PSV star said at the end of August that he wasn’t overly disappointed that United withdrew their interest in him after being able to land Antony instead.