Real Madrid take the lead for Gakpo

Marcel Brands, PSV's sporting director, made clear in 'Euwig Trow' his intention to negotiate for Cody Gakpo, one of the sensations of the World Cup in Qatar, if he receives a huge offer in January. At the moment, the main suitors are Real Madrid and Manchester United. So far, neither these teams nor any other have made formal bids for the Netherlands international.

However, according to 'AS', Real Madrid could be leading the race to sign the Dutch international due to the good relations they have with the Eindhoven side.

Rene Van de Kerkhof, a former PSV player, also gave an update on Real's interest: "I have reliable Spanish sources reporting that Real want to land Cody Gakpo as Benzema's replacement.

Van Nistelrooy, coach of the Dutch club, did not rule out an exit for the player either: "There have been rumours about him since the start of the season and we haven't seen Cody change his behaviour so far. He is not distracted, he is focused on the games he has to play and focused on his next game. For a young guy like him, it's special to see that attitude."