Man Utd boss disappointed with Cody Gakpo failure

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has been left disappointed after the club failed to compete with Liverpool for Cody Gakpo.

The Netherlands international was the top attacking target for the United boss this winter and it was anticipated that they would sign him.

Gakpo made several references about United in the last few weeks but he is now surprisingly on his way to Liverpool on a six-year deal.

It is now revealed by ESPN that United could not compete financially with the Reds. They were not prepared to pay a big transfer fee up front.

Ten Hag has expressed his disappointment after the transfer blow and it remains to be seen how the club react to the unexpected setback.

Judging by the reluctance to spend on Gakpo, it is quite clear that the hierarchy are looking for a cost-cut solution at the turn of the year.

A loan deal seems the likely path for the board at the moment.