‘Liverpool’s best player’ – Patrice Evra makes huge Cody Gakpo claim amid exit rumours

Patrice Evra has delivered a major endorsement of Cody Gakpo, claiming the Dutch forward is currently Liverpool’s “best player” as uncertainty continues to surround his future at Anfield.

The former Manchester United defender was discussing Liverpool’s attacking options on Kick Stream, brought to you by Stake, when he assessed the Reds’ struggles following Mohamed Salah’s departure.

Liverpool have been actively exploring the winger market this summer as they look to reshape their attack. Yankuba Minteh, Ismaila Sarr, Ibrahim Mbaye and Bradley Barcola have all been linked with a move to the Premier League champions, developments that could further threaten Gakpo’s place in the club’s plans.

Tottenham have already strengthened their attack with the additions of Omar Marmoush and Savio but remain interested in Gakpo, while Manchester City have also emerged as admirers of the Netherlands international.

With Premier League rivals circling, Evra believes losing Gakpo would be a significant blow to Liverpool.

“Liverpool have something missing, they don’t have Mohamed Salah anymore. I think Cody Gakpo is Liverpool’s best player now. Hugo Ekitike will take a long time to recover from his injury, but normally he would be the number one.”

Evra questions Wirtz impact

Evra also assessed Florian Wirtz, who arrived at Liverpool last summer for a reported £115 million but has faced criticism for failing to consistently justify his huge price tag.

While acknowledging the German’s outstanding movement and intelligence, Evra questioned whether Wirtz has imposed himself strongly enough on matches.

“Florian Wirtz’s movement is unbelievable, but he’s too soft. He’s too beautiful. I don’t feel any impact, no aura, he’s not dominating a game. He will make a difference because he’s smart, but he doesn’t put the team on his shoulders, and I think that’s why Liverpool bought him in the first place.”

Wirtz has shown signs of becoming more physical this season, potentially giving him the platform to respond to those criticisms and establish himself as a decisive figure for Arne Slot’s side.

Gakpo exit could fund Barcola move

Liverpool’s growing interest in attacking reinforcements could have direct consequences for Gakpo, particularly with Barcola increasingly close to a move.

Barcola is expected to undergo his medical this week, with reports suggesting a potential deal for the French winger could eventually reach around £120 million.

A departure for Gakpo could therefore help Liverpool facilitate the ambitious move, although Evra’s assessment underlines the potential risk of allowing one of their most productive attackers to leave.

For now, the transfer speculation leaves Liverpool facing a significant decision: cash in on Gakpo to reshape their attack, or retain the player Evra believes is currently their best attacker.