According to The Athletic, Liverpool are among the clubs in contention to sign Cody Gakpo. The PSV Eindhoven attacker has a gentleman’s agreement with the club over a potential exit in the summer. The player has no release clause embedded in his contract either, paving the way for Liverpool to snap him up in the summer, although they could face stiff competition from FC Barcelona.
Cody Gakpo’s Success At PSV
A native of Eindhoven, Cody Gakpo is a homegrown star who has been involved in the club’s senior team since 2018. While the attacker has always been around the blocks, his presence had been overshadowed due to the likes of Steven Bergwijn, Donyell Malen and Noni Madueke.
However, following the exit of Malen to Borussia Dortmund last summer, Gakpo has truly stepped up to the plate this season, scoring eight goals while providing 13 assists in just 20 league matches. He has emerged as one of the most productive players in the Eredivisie this term, impressing the onlookers with his pace and chance creation.
A left-winger by trade, Gakpo is quite versatile as well. He can play on the opposite flank and even as a false nine if required. His versatility combines well with his pace and productivity, thus making him a well-rounded attacker.
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A Perfect Option For Liverpool?
Liverpool‘s pursuit of Cody Gakpo could be indicative of the club’s plans to prepare for life without Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane. The two experienced stars have been critical behind the club’s success under Jurgen Klopp.
However, both of them are moving into the final phase of their respective careers, with their contracts expiring at the end of next season. They are likely to demand hefty pay raise, with Salah, in particular, holding out for a double-your-salary package at Anfield.
As a result, the Reds are now eyeing contingency plans, and that is where someone like Cody Gakpo comes into the fray. For a club that have enjoyed immense success with the transfers of Diogo Jota and Luis Diaz, the Dutchman could be another exciting addition to Klopp’s offensive armoury.
The PSV starlet has the dynamism and ability to thrive in the Premier League, while his versatility should open up countless tactical avenues for Klopp. And at the age of just 22, the Dutchman could prove to be a smart long-term investment for the Merseyside giants this summer.
