Real Madrid to sign Man United target as Benzema’s successor

Cody Gakpo was one of the Netherlands’ leading attacking figures during their World Cup campaign this month. Although the Oranje were eliminated by Argentina in the quarterfinals, the PSV Eindhoven attacker made an impression with his productivity in front of goal.

Gakpo’s performances have not gone unnoticed, with Real Madrid among the clubs interested in his services. It appears the Dutchman has become a target for Carlo Ancelotti as part of his plans to reinforce the attacking department in the upcoming January transfer window.

Gakpo’s current contract at PSV does not expire until 2026, meaning interested parties may have to fortune for his services, even though the player could be up for sale in January.

A report from Diario AS has offered a fresh update on the Dutchman’s future, indicating that PSV Eindhoven are indeed open to the sale of the attacking starlet and are, in fact, waiting for Real Madrid to make an official bid for the player.

PSV legend Rene Van de Kerkhof has stated, "I have reliable Spanish sources that report that Real wants to get Cody Gakpo as Benzema’s successor."

The Eredivisie giants are aware of the fact that Real Madrid are interested in Gakpo, who has been identified as an ideal alternative for Karim Benzema. The Frenchman, after all, has had his issues with injuries lately, leaving the Whites devoid of a reliable goalscorer.

The club are expected to splurge big on Endrick, but the Brazilian sensation is not expected to arrive until 2024, whereas Erling Haaland is currently an unattainable target for the club.

That is where Cody Gakpo comes into the fray. At the age of 23, the forward offers abundant experience and goalscoring prowess that could make him an ideal leader of the Real Madrid frontline in the years to come.

But with PSV unwilling to sell the Dutchman on a cut-price deal, it remains to be seen whether Real Madrid are in a position to sign the player in the upcoming January transfer window.