Dutch-Togolese Cody Gakpo says drawn-out Liverpool contract talks took a year to finalise

Cody Gakpo has explained that his new Liverpool contract was the result of protracted discussions that stretched over an entire year.

The Netherlands international, who has Togolese roots through his father, signed a fresh deal on Saturday that ties him to Anfield until 2030.

Speaking from the Dutch national team camp, Gakpo admitted that the negotiations dragged on far longer than expected.

“I think it took us a year. Maybe a little longer or shorter, but it’s just a long process,” he said, underlining the challenges players face when balancing interest from other clubs with the desire to remain settled.

The 25-year-old forward also confirmed that Bayern Munich had made enquiries during the summer window, though they ultimately turned their attention to other targets.

“From what I understand, they (Bayern) have come, but in the end they have bought Luis Díaz,” he revealed.

Reflecting on the experience, Gakpo described how the uncertainty surrounding his future added to the strain.

“Such a transfer window can be hectic and stressful for a player and everyone around him. That doesn’t bother me anymore,” he said.

“It’s difficult, because a lot is happening. Other clubs come to you, but you may want to keep your own club. Everyone deals with it in their own way, but it is certainly difficult. If the future is uncertain, then it will just be a very difficult story.”

For Liverpool, concluding the lengthy process secures the commitment of one of their most versatile attackers.

Gakpo has become increasingly influential since joining from PSV Eindhoven in January 2023, and the new deal reflects his growing importance to the squad under Arne Slot.