Manchester City are stepping up negotiations to sign Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo in a deal worth approximately £85 million. The potential transfer has prompted a public plea from Reds captain Virgil van Dijk for his teammate to remain at Anfield.
City currently sit top of the Premier League table with a perfect six points from their opening two matches. They have scored six goals and conceded just two, giving them a strong early goal difference of plus four.
Liverpool's defensive leader made his feelings clear when asked about the speculation surrounding Gakpo. "What do you think? He's a quality player. I think we should keep quality players," Van Dijk stated. The Dutch international highlighted Gakpo's importance, referencing a specific goal he scored against Chelsea last season. Van Dijk also expressed broader frustration with Liverpool's inconsistent start to the new campaign, noting they need to score more and concede fewer goals.
He pointed to recent struggles at home, mentioning that Nottingham Forest have left Anfield unbeaten in each of the last three seasons. Van Dijk stressed that once the transfer window closes, the squad must fight with no regrets. His comments underscore the internal concern at Liverpool about losing a key attacker to a direct rival.
The report indicates Liverpool will only sanction Gakpo's departure to Manchester City if they have a replacement winger secured. Their primary target appears to be Bradley Barcola. The French forward is reportedly already in England and is set to undergo a medical ahead of signing a five-year contract, with a fee believed to be around £123 million.
Liverpool have also considered alternative options should the Barcola deal hit a snag. The club's scouts have looked at Crystal Palace's Ismaila Sarr and Brighton & Hove Albion's Yankuba Minteh as potential reinforcements. This contingency planning shows Liverpool are preparing for all outcomes as the deadline approaches.
Cody Gakpo has started both of Liverpool's Premier League games this season, demonstrating his continued importance to Jurgen Klopp. A move to the Etihad would see him join a City attack that is already firing, having netted six times in two league outings. His versatility to play across the front line would provide Guardiola with another tactical option alongside Erling Haaland and Phil Foden.
The proposed £85 million fee reflects his value and the premium attached to moving between top English clubs. For City, who lead the standings, adding a proven Premier League performer could be seen as a move to strengthen while weakening a competitor. Van Dijk acknowledged the appeal of a club like City, saying, "He's a good player, that's the only thing I can say."
The final days of the transfer window will be decisive. Manchester City's pursuit of Gakpo is now public and advanced, putting significant pressure on Liverpool's decision-making. If the deal proceeds, Liverpool must swiftly complete their move for Barcola or another target to avoid being left short. For City, securing Gakpo would be a major statement of intent as they aim to defend their title from the top of the table.
All parties will be working against the clock. The outcome will directly impact the attacking resources available to both Pep Guardiola and Jurgen Klopp for the remainder of the season. The ripple effects could influence the Premier League title race, with City looking to capitalize on their strong early position.
