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Reports suggest that Manchester United could attempt to outmanoeuvre Tottenham Hotspur in the race to sign Liverpool’s Dutch forward Cody Gakpo.

Gakpo joined Liverpool for approximately £45 million ahead of the 2023 winter transfer window. At the time, he appeared close to joining Manchester United, but the Red Devils missed out on completing the deal.

The Netherlands international shone for his country at the World Cup, yet he endured a disappointing campaign with Liverpool last season. As a result, rumours have circulated that the club may consider his departure during the current summer window.

In recent weeks, Tottenham Hotspur have been strongly linked with Gakpo, with reports indicating that he is among their three ‘dream’ transfer targets before the close of the window.

However, Manchester United could reignite their earlier interest in Gakpo and make a formal approach before the transfer deadline.

Although United’s primary focus this summer remains strengthening their midfield, the club may also look to bolster their attacking options. The Red Devils have been linked with West Ham United winger Crysencio Summerville as part of those plans.

Nevertheless, football journalist Ben Jacobs has revealed that Manchester United might pursue Gakpo if the player personally “asks to leave” Liverpool, even though another club currently appears to be the “most concrete suitor.”

Jacobs explained to The United Stand: “He has always been somewhat appreciated, but we know that Manchester United and Liverpool don’t usually conduct direct transfers. So, whether such a move could realistically happen, I’m not so sure.”

He continued: “Despite recent reports in the Netherlands, there are denials that Gakpo has made any formal request to leave. Liverpool remain calm about the situation, though Tottenham could explore the opportunity. What we know is that Manchester United admired Gakpo before his move to Liverpool.”

Jacobs added: “If Gakpo specifically requests to leave Liverpool, then we’ll see which Premier League clubs act. At present, Tottenham appear to be the most serious contender.”

In related news, Manchester United have reportedly advanced in their efforts to finalise deals for Andrey Santos and Karl Darlow, while transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has issued an update on midfielder Ederson Silva.

Romano stated: “I can share more about Ederson. He has already completed the first part of his additional medical. The second part will take place soon, after which everything should be settled. As I mentioned earlier this week, we expected a final confirmation on the deal, and Manchester United are set to deliver their verdict on the Ederson transfer within the week.”

He further explained: “At the moment, the deal is on hold, even though verbal agreements are already in place. Manchester United reached a verbal understanding with Ederson, and the first part of his medical took place in the United States. The club decided to conduct extra medical tests, which are currently happening in England.”

“Once those assessments are complete, Manchester United will communicate with Atalanta and the player’s representatives to confirm whether they will proceed with the signing or decide to pull out. So, we await the club’s final decision on Ederson,” Romano concluded.