Liverpool fans feared a hole would be left on the left wing after Luis Diaz’s move to Bayern Munich.
The transfer rumour mill quickly churned out names — PSG’s Bradley Barcola, Real Madrid’s Rodrygo, Lyon’s Malick Fofana.
But the truth? The answer to Diaz’s departure might already be in the dressing room.
Arne Slot’s side have had a sharp pre-season. Goals have been flowing, young players have been shining, and one Dutch forward in particular is stepping into the limelight.
Cody Gakpo has been quietly making his case, and he’s not asking for the job — he’s already playing like it’s his.
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Why Cody Gakpo will be a perfect Luis Diaz replacement?
Gakpo’s numbers speak for themselves. Last season, he featured 49 times, scoring 18 goals and assisting six.
This summer, he’s carried that form into pre-season with four goals already. He’s not just a finisher; he’s a link-up player, a runner, and a clever mover in tight spaces.
In short, he fits the profile Liverpool already trusts on the left.
And if Gakpo is the present, Rio Ngumoha is looking like the future. The 16-year-old academy winger has been turning heads with goals against Athletic Club, Stoke City, and Yokohama FM.
Slot is already impressed, saying: “Rio showed in the last few games that at the senior level he can make an impact.”
There’s also new signing Hugo Ekitike, who can drift left when needed. His assist for Mohamed Salah against Athletic Club hinted at a tactical flexibility that could keep opponents guessing.
For now, Liverpool’s “Diaz dilemma” looks solved without dipping further into the transfer budget. Signing another left winger could disrupt Gakpo’s rhythm and block Ngumoha’s path.
The Reds may revisit the position in the future, but as things stand, the left flank looks ready for both the present and the next generation.
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