Liverpool have continued their pursuit of forward signings and as they close in on Bradley Barcola Cody Gakpo could leave Anfield with Manchester City circling
Cody Gakpo could leave before the window closes
Cody Gakpo could leave before the window closes
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Virgil van Dijk insists Liverpool should look to keep Cody Gakpo because the club "should keep quality players" as a move to Manchester City gathers momentum.
The Dutchman could ultimately prove to be the one who loses out in the Reds' summer recruitment drive as they finally close in on Bradley Barcola from PSG. The Frenchman has been on their radar for months and a £123million agreement has finally been struck.
Barcola though would play in Gakpo's position on the wing and as a result Liverpool are prepared to green light his departure. Tottenham had been keen but the Dutchman is more likely to move to City in a deal that could reach £85m.
Gakpo was on target in Liverpool's opening weekend draw at Newcastle and outshone both Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak - two men who cost in excess of £100m - and Van Dijk is clearly adamant he should remain at Anfield.
When quizzed on whether his compatriot should stay he replied: "What do you think? He's a quality player. I think we should keep quality players. 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."
Gakpo's departure will only sanctioned if Liverpool sign another wide forward, in addition to Barcola, reports ESPN. But the Reds have been active in that space and are currently eyeing Ismaila Sarr.
They moved onto the Crystal Palace winger after it became clear that Brighton had no plans to sell Yankuba Minteh, who they had originally gone after before seeing their bids rejected.
Bradley Barcola runs
Liverpool look set to sign Bradley Barcola(Image: PSG via Getty Images)
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Gakpo moved to Liverpool after the World Cup in 2022 and has gone on to score 51 times in 182 games without ever establishing himself as the team's marquee marksman. The signing of Isak for a British record fee has meant that Liverpool have had to seek a return on their investment.
The same can be said for Wirtz and, if he arrives, Barcola. Iraola would have a front three who were all signed for fees than exceeded the £100m mark whilst they also have Rio Ngumoha and Victor Munoz, adding further competition in the final third.
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