Ruud van Nistelrooy says he is ‘relaxed’ over PSV’s Cody Gakpo being linked with Manchester United

Ruud Van Nistelrooy insists he is ‘relaxed’ about the transfer speculation surrounding Manchester United target Cody Gakpo.

Old Trafford boss Erik ten Haag wants to sign the PSV Eindhoven winger in a £38million deal.

The 23-year-old plans to reach a decision on his future after Wednesday night’s Champions League play-off second leg against Rangers.

PSV boss Ruud van Nistelrooy insists he is relaxed over the speculation regarding his star

Admitting he could stay put if PSV reach the group stage, the Dutch side drew 2-2 in the first leg in Glasgow.

And speaking ahead of Wednesday’s second leg – against a Rangers side missing axed striker Alfredo Morelos – van Nistelrooy said: ‘I think I am very relaxed about the situation.

‘There have been rumours about him since the beginning of the season almost eight weeks ago.

‘And we have not seen Cody changing his behaviour up to now.

Erik ten Hag is keen on Dutch international Gakpo as he continues to strengthen his squad

PSV drew the first leg of their Champions League play-off with Rangers 2-2 at Ibrox

Gakpo plans to decide on his future after Wednesday’s second leg in the Netherlands

‘There were rumours over the whole period and I admire that a lot in him.

‘He is working on his development on a daily basis, playing in games and reaching his level.

‘He is not distracted, he is focused on the games he has to play and focused on tomorrow’s game with his teammates.

‘For a young guy like him it is special to see that attitude.’

Asked if he would prefer to keep his star man – provider of two assists from corners in the first leg in Glasgow – the former Old Trafford strike legend said: ‘That’s obvious.

‘As long as he’s a PSV player he’s here. That’s what I’ll focus on and him as well.

‘There’s no if or what ifs. He’s a PSV player until further notice.’

Rangers will be without Alfredo Morelos after he was left at home due to concerns over his attitude and fitness

Van Nistelrooy will face his former Dutch teammate Giovanni van Bronckhurst tomorrow

Preparing to go head to head with his friend and countryman Giovanni van Bronckhurst for a place in Thursday’s Champions League draw in Istanbul Van Nistelrooy sympathised with the plight of his former international teammate after he was forced to leave Alfredo Morelos at home amidst concerns over his fitness and attitude.

‘I don’t know the decision-making about the Morelos case. I cannot comment on that.

‘But I know Giovanni is making the best decision in the interest of the club and the team.

‘That’s the way I know him as a professional and a person.’