Louis van Gaal's 'missed calls' from Man United spotted by Dutch reporter amid Cody Gakpo talk #MUFC

SPECULATION 

Louis van Gaal’s ‘missed calls’ from Manchester United spotted by Dutch journalist who found Netherlands boss’ phone in hotel toilet as Cody Gakpo continues to be linked with transfer

Manchester United have reportedly been trying to get a hold of ex-boss Louis van Gaal in a suggestion they are stepping up their pursuit of Cody Gakpo.

The PSV forward has starred under the tutelage of the Netherlands manager at the World Cup where he has banged in three goals.

A long-term target of the Red Devils, it has been claimed that the club are eyeing up a £50million swoop in January for the 23-year-old.

And according to The Mirror, it appears United have ramped up their efforts to bring the forward to Old Trafford after a startling discovery from a reporter.

It has been claimed that the Dutch journalist found Van Gaal’s mobile phone in a hotel toilet, where he had two missed calls from a caller ID that said ‘Manchester United‘.

De Telegraaf’s football writer Valentijn Driessen immediately returned it to Van Gaal, with it alleged he was ‘less than impressed’ he found it.

United have just one player with the Dutch national in Qatar – Tyrell Malacia – who has failed to feature so far.

Of course United could have been asking to speak about the left-back’s situation, but it has sparked speculation over a move for Gakpo.

Though it has been stated that United are unlikely to be given permission to speak to Gakpo as Netherlands prepare for their quarter-final clash against Argentina.

As well as his fine form for Holland, Gakpo has starred at club level this season – chipping in with 13 goals and 17 assists from just 24 games in all competitions.

Gakpo – who was also a target for Leeds in the summer – has been open about his desire to speak to United should they make formal contact with PSV.

United are in the market for a new attacker in the New Year after the club and Cristiano Ronaldo mutually agreed to terminate his contract.

Commenting on a failed switch to the Theatre of Dreams in the previous transfer window, Gakpo told NRC: “I thought about Manchester United.

“But when that didn’t happen, I couldn’t remember. And I started to doubt.

“Leeds United did come. Should I go there? Now I wait everything. I haven’t heard from Manchester United yet.

“When they come, I’ll think about it. I also seek the help of God in these decisions.”