Dutch-Togolese forward Cody Gakpo reveals Bayern Munich interest before Liverpool contract extension

Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo has disclosed that Bayern Munich made an approach for him before the Premier League champions secured Luis Diaz.

The Netherlands international, who also carries Togolese heritage, recently committed his future to Liverpool by signing a contract extension through 2030, keeping him at Anfield amid a perfect start to their 2025/26 campaign with three wins from three matches.

Gakpo, 26, scored 18 goals and registered two assists in 49 appearances last season, establishing himself as a key attacking asset for Liverpool since joining in January 2023.

Despite attracting interest from top European clubs, he chose to remain at Anfield.

“From what I understand, they (Bayern) did come (to open talks about a transfer), but they ended up buying Luis Diaz. It’s difficult because so much is happening.

“Other clubs are approaching you, but you might want to stay with your own club. Everyone handles that in their own way, but it’s definitely difficult. When the future is uncertain, it just becomes a very difficult story,” Gakpo explained.

The Dutch winger has delivered consistent output, registering at least 20 goals or assists in each of his first two full seasons at Liverpool.

Bayern Munich, meanwhile, opted for Colombian Luis Diaz, who scored 17 goals and provided five assists in 50 appearances last season.

Diaz has already contributed three goals and two assists in the Bundesliga under manager Vincent Kompany, helping Bayern lift the German Super Cup and maintain an unbeaten start.

Gakpo is expected to feature for the Netherlands in their World Cup qualifier against Poland on Thursday night in Rotterdam.

With the 2026 tournament on the horizon, his performances for both club and country will be crucial as he continues to develop into one of Europe’s most promising forwards.