Andoni Iraola refuses to guarantee Cody Gakpo’s Liverpool future

Liverpool boss Andoni Iraola has refused to guarantee Cody Gakpo will remain at the club beyond the transfer window, despite the forward starting the season in impressive fashion.

The 27-year-old played the full 90 minutes in Liverpool’s 2-2 draw with Newcastle in their opening Premier League fixture, scoring the club’s first goal of the campaign.

Gakpo’s involvement suggested he remains an important part of Iraola’s plans, but his future has nevertheless become a subject of speculation with Tottenham and Manchester City reportedly monitoring his situation.

With the transfer window still open, Iraola was asked ahead of Saturday’s meeting with Nottingham Forest whether Gakpo could leave Liverpool.

“When the market is open you cannot guarantee anything,” Iraola said.

The comment is likely to fuel further uncertainty around the Dutch international, particularly with Liverpool continuing to assess their options in the closing stages of the transfer window.

Barcola interest adds intrigue

Liverpool are also understood to be exploring the possibility of signing Paris Saint-Germain forward Bradley Barcola as they look to strengthen their attacking options.

Iraola confirmed the club are working to add numbers in that position but refused to discuss a player who remains under contract elsewhere.

“We cannot talk about players who are not ours, but we are trying to fill that position as we don’t have the numbers. I hope to have good news soon but we are not there yet,” he said.

The Liverpool boss also indicated that the club could pursue reinforcements in other areas before the window closes, although he stressed the need for patience as the deadline approaches.

“If we can improve in other areas then we will. We have to be patient. In four or five days we will know what we have.”

Liverpool face key decisions

Gakpo’s situation therefore remains one to watch as Liverpool prepare for another Premier League test against Forest.

While his goalscoring contribution against Newcastle underlines his value to the squad, Iraola’s refusal to rule out a departure leaves the door open for a late transfer twist.

Liverpool must now balance any potential sale with their need to maintain sufficient attacking depth, particularly if their pursuit of Barcola progresses in the final days of the window.