Manchester United 'eye' cheaper Cody Gakpo alternative and other transfer news

Manchester United could target former flop Memphis Depay as a cheaper alternative to PSV's Cody Gakpo, according to reports.

Barcelona are keen to offload Memphis Depay, who has made just three La Liga appearances in 2022-23, falling down Xavi’s ever-growing pecking order despite only arriving at the Nou Camp last year.

There has been talk of a possible return to Old Trafford as Erik ten Hag prepares for life without Cristiano Ronaldo following the 37-year-old’s explosive exit, and United chiefs are eyeing a replacement in the January transfer window.

As it stands, the Red Devils have no out-and-out striker at the club. Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial can play through the middle but their best performances in a red shirt have come from the left flank.

Spanish outlet Sport claim Depay - an ex-United flop - is heading for the Barcelona exit after being made surplus to requirements. Ten Hag is understood to be keen on signing his compatriot as a short-term fix to the Ronaldo problem and could view him as a cheaper alternative to his compatriot Gakpo whose contract in Holland runs until 2026.

Question marks remain over the 28-year-old's ability to cut it in the Premier League. Depay bagged just two top-flight goals for the Red Devils before Jose Mourinho shipped him out on loan to Lyon.

In other news, SportBible are reporting that Man United and Liverpool 'target' Youssoufa Moukoko is in talks to remain in Germany. A product of the famous Borussia Dortmund academy, the 18-year-old became Germany’s youngest-ever player during their shock 2-1 defeat to Japan in the World Cup.

Dortmund have nurtured the forward in recent seasons but gave him a more prominent role before the international break. Moukoko - whose contract expires at the end of the season - will undoubtedly attract Europe’s top club should he decide to seek pastures new.

But it is claimed he has opened talks with Dortmund to extend his stay with the club.