Cody Gakpo is keen to join Manchester United (AMA/Getty)

PSV’s former technical director John de Jong has revealed that Cody Gakpo is holding out for a move to Manchester United.

Gakpo has been PSV’s standout performer this season with 12 goals and 15 assists so far, while he has also scored in both of Netherlands’ group games at the World Cup in Qatar.

The 23-year-old was close to joining Leeds United in the summer transfer window but the winger opted not to board a private flight on deadline day and remained in Eindhoven.

Southampton were also willing to break their transfer record to sign Gakpo in the summer but a deal failed to materialise.

Reports this week have claimed that Erik ten Hag has identified Gakpo as his top target to replace Cristiano Ronaldo in the January window.

And De Jong, who was sacked by PSV in September for a ‘breach of confidence’ with the Dutch club’s board, believes Gakpo is prioritising a move to Old Trafford.

Cody Gakpo has impressed for Netherlands at the World Cup (VCG via Getty)

‘Cody has been waiting a long time for the transfer to Manchester United and it seemed to be coming,’ De Jong told NOS on Sunday.

‘A week before the end of the transfer window that fell through. After that he had two options in the Premier League, but you never know how that will turn out.

‘He made the choice himself. In the end I did have a discussion with the board, whether or not to sell. I think it is really better for him that he stayed.

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‘I think it’s very nice how he is developing. He continues the line he started at PSV this season

‘He is very effective and decisive. Also at the World Cup. I really enjoy watching it. It is especially great for Cody Gakpo that he is doing so well, but ultimately also for PSV and Dutch football.’

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United have made him one of their top targets to replace Cristiano Ronaldo.