Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has made his feelings clear on Cody Gakpo’s future as Manchester City close in on the Dutch forward.
Speaking to Liverpool ECHO journalist Paul Gorst, Van Dijk was asked whether he wants his international teammate to remain at Anfield amid the late transfer speculation.
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His response was emphatic.
“What do you think? He’s a quality player. I think we should keep quality players,” Van Dijk said.
“Let’s see what the next few days bring. I want him to stay not only because he’s a quality player but also because he’s a friend of mine. He’s very important for us.”
Van Dijk’s comments come at a particularly significant time, with Manchester City having opened talks with Liverpool over a potential move for Gakpo.
Recent reports state that contact between the two clubs began late in the transfer window, with one source claiming that a potential transfer is now advancing in Manchester City’s direction.
Tottenham have also been interested in the forward.
The latest reports suggest City could be prepared to pay around £85 million for the 27-year-old, while Fabrizio Romano has reported that Manchester City are confident of completing the deal once Liverpool agree on a replacement.
Gakpo is also reportedly open to a move to Manchester, adding another layer to an increasingly uncertain situation.
Liverpool’s agreement to sign Bradley Barcola from Paris Saint-Germain has been a major factor behind the speculation.
The French winger’s arrival was initially expected to make Gakpo’s position at Anfield more uncertain, with reports suggesting Liverpool could sanction his departure if the right offer arrived.
However, Gakpo has started the season well and has continued to demonstrate his importance to the team.
He scored in the opening-day draw with Newcastle United before assisting Alexander Isak during Saturday’s 2-2 draw with Nottingham Forest.
Now, with Manchester City pushing to sign him and the transfer deadline approaching, Liverpool face a major decision.
Van Dijk, though, has already made his preference perfectly clear.
He wants Gakpo to stay.
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