‘He looks like the real deal’: Joe Cole gushes over World Cup attacking talent Arsenal reportedly want

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Joe Cole has described reported Arsenal target Cody Gakpo as a player who “looks like the real deal”.

The pundit was speaking on ITV after the PSV Eindhoven star helped the Netherlands beat World Cup hosts Qatar on Tuesday.

Arsenal have been linked with Gakpo for a number of months now.

In October, The Athletic reported that the Gunners are among the clubs still chasing a deal for the 23-year-old.

However, Gakpo’s World Cup efforts could well mean that Arsenal will be in a very congested race for his signature.

The PSV ace has played in all three of his nation’s group games, and has scored in each match.

Dennis Bergkamp, Wesley Sneijder and Johan Neeskens are the only other Dutch players to score in three consecutive World Cup matches.

And while his valuation is expected to soar, Cole believes he will be worth the investment.

‘He has [put his name out there],’ the former England ace told ITV – via Metro – following the Oranje’s win.

‘I know there have been scouts watching him, he has come to the tournament and he is fearless. Great movement for the goal and fantastic finishing. He is going to be on everyone’s wish list.’

‘There will be some offers’

Asked by former Netherlands international Nigel de Jong if he would pay £80m for Gakpo, Cole added: ‘I would, 100 per cent.

‘Because he’s young, we know there is value in youth, if he doesn’t quite work out you are going to cut your losses elsewhere but he looks like the real deal.

‘I know it’s Qatar, I know it’s not one of the strongest nations but against Ecuador he scored, against Senegal he scored, he affects the game and players who affect the game, that is where the value is.

‘I really like him, I have liked what I have seen at PSV and I am pretty sure there will be some offers on the door at PSV in January.’

‘He’s expected to leave’

In a boost for Arsenal and the many other suitors, Fabrizio Romano has claimed that Gakpo’s representatives are already working on a potential transfer.

The transfer insider shared the update, along with Gakpo’s comments on Premier League interest, ahead of the Netherlands’ match today.

And after the game, Romano praised Gakpo, saying he is “literally flying” right now.