Liverpool have held talks with PSV forward and Netherlands international, Cody Gakpo. However, ‘The Reds’ will face tough competition from Manchester City and Bayern Munich.
The Dutch international has impressed this season, scoring and assisting 10 times in 28 appearances across all competitions. Cody Gakpo forced his way through the Dutch senior squad and made his debut in Euro 2020. He also scored his first international goal against Montenegro.
Cody Gakpo: A Sadio Mane replacement?
Sadio Mané is an outstanding player and a model professional. In fact, he has given nothing short of his best to Liverpool. However, his game has visibly declined and as he grows old, he will decline further.
Although his numbers have improved this season, he is far from his best. Therefore, it becomes a necessity to introduce some competition for his place in the squad.
Cody Gakpo could be that competition. The PSV star likes to cut inside and dribble. He also has a knack for going on overlapping runs and combining with fullbacks. Additionally, Gakpo is also skilled in shooting from outside the box.
In a nutshell, Gakpo resembles Sadio. If Gakpo develops pace and the skill of beating defenders in one-on-one situations, he would be a perfect Klopp forward.
Contract Situation
Cody Gakpo’s contract expires on Jun 30, 2025, and PSV value him above €22 million. Therefore, PSV could ask for better terms. Add Man City and Bayern Munich to the mix, and it becomes a slightly difficult signing to pull off.
PSV have limited attacking options on the left. With only 27-year-old Bruma as cover, PSV would think twice before letting Gakpo go. There are also rumours of Gakpo signing a new contract if, a new opportunity doesn’t excite him.
Verdict
Liverpool made a blistering start to the season but have tapered off as the season went on. Even though ‘The Reds’ have posted their best-ever attacking numbers, they are still behind the likes of Manchester City and Bayern Munich. This can be attributed to holes in midfield and a lack of competition & cover in some areas.
Alongside Aurélien Tchouaméni, Fabio Carvalho and Johnathan David, Cody Gakpo is one of the players that fit the mould of a Liverpool player so well. Therefore, it is pertinent that ‘The Reds’ aren’t negligent and let a talented player slip away. Besides, Liverpool’s transfer department is probably the best in the world and shouldn’t need to scamper for funds.
Therefore, taking steps towards strengthening the squad is a positive sign and Liverpool fans would hope that the squad is refreshed and reinforced.
