Liverpool were involved in a chaotic deadline day despite making no senior signings.
Cody Gakpo almost left Liverpool at the end of the summer window
Cody Gakpo almost left Liverpool at the end of the summer window (Image: 2025 Getty Images)
Andoni Iraola will take his Liverpool team into a Premier League clash without the distraction of transfer speculation looming over proceedings on Friday night. The Reds are searching for their maiden victory of the season following draws against Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest in their opening two matches. Newly-promoted Ipswich Town await at Portman Road next.
While supporters will be keen to move past transfer discussions and concentrate on matters on the pitch, the repercussions from the club's summer business continue to unfold. Cody Gakpo's potential exit has dominated conversation in recent months, with both Tottenham and Manchester City expressing their desire to sign the player. Additionally, numerous departures from Anfield materialised as the window drew to a close.
Cody Gakpo seems unfazed and prepared to perform despite nearly leaving Liverpool on deadline day. Having attracted interest from Tottenham throughout the summer, the Netherlands international subsequently became a target for City, who were prepared to pay approximately £85million for his signature.
The transfer would only have gone ahead had Liverpool secured another forward. However, with potential deals for Crystal Palace's Isamaila Sarr and Brighton's Yankuba Minteh failing to materialise, Gakpo's departure was blocked as the Reds turned down City's offer.
The Dutch international, who has made an impressive start to the campaign, is set to feature in the squad for the Ipswich fixture.
Iraola has confirmed he maintained open communication with Gakpo throughout the transfer saga and has no hesitation in selecting him for the Premier League encounter.
"My relationship with Cody has been very honest from the beginning," said Iraola.
"He has played very well for us so far. He was always aware of the situation in the market, we were constantly talking, I hope we can keep him at the same level. He is in a good place physically and mentally and I'm very happy to pick him."
Tottenham and Manchester City both wanted to sign Gakpo in the summer
Tottenham and Manchester City both wanted to sign Gakpo in the summer (Image: Getty Images)
Stefan Bajcetic has posted a heartfelt message on social media following his exit from Liverpool, after the midfielder completed his move to Celta Vigo towards the end of the window.
Having joined Liverpool in 2021, Bajcetic broke into the first team a year later, appearing destined for a prominent role in midfield. Sadly, a calf injury severely hampered his progress, ruling him out for the majority of the 2023/24 season.
He subsequently struggled to make his mark during loan spells at Red Bull Salzburg and Las Palmas. With just one year remaining on his Anfield contract, Liverpool opted to cash in on Bajcetic rather than risk losing him on a free transfer next summer.
The Spanish midfielder, however, appears to harbour no ill will over the decision.
Part of his heartfelt farewell message read: "The love you have gave me throughout the five years I spent in Liverpool has been incredible, it's easy to show love when things go in the right direction, but as you know it hasn't always been the case with me, and you have been there for me at all times.
"This club is a massive family and it wouldn't be with all the people that work for it, from chefs, kitchen staff, player care, groundskeepers, media, kit man, and all the hundred departments this club has, everyone makes out life so much easier and keeps this club as big as it is. I will miss you so much.
"Physios, doctors, medical department, what can I say, unfortunately, we got to spend so much time together, we lived so many ups and downs, and you have always gave your best for me, I will always be grateful. This club will stay in my heart forever. Once a red, forever a red."