Van Dijk urges Liverpool to keep Gakpo as Manchester City talks continue

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has made clear that he wants Cody Gakpo to remain at the club, with negotiations continuing over a potential move to Manchester City before the summer transfer window closes.

Gakpo is valued at about £80m, and Manchester City have reportedly emerged as his preferred destination. The Netherlands forward had also attracted interest from Tottenham Hotspur.

Liverpool are not expected to allow Gakpo to leave in the next 48 hours unless they can complete the signing of another winger before the transfer deadline. Paris Saint-Germain forward Bradley Barcola is undergoing a medical at Liverpool ahead of a proposed move, but the club would still need to finalise that deal before considering Gakpo’s departure.

The situation was put to Van Dijk after Liverpool’s 2-2 draw with Nottingham Forest. Asked whether he wanted Gakpo to stay, the Dutch defender told reporters: “What do you think? He is a top-class player. I think we should keep quality players.”

Van Dijk added: “We will see what the next few days will bring. I want him to stay not only because he is a top-class player, but also because he is my friend. He is very important for us.”

Gakpo joined Liverpool from PSV Eindhoven and has become an important part of the club’s attacking options. His possible departure would come as Liverpool seek to strengthen their squad while also managing the transition within the team.

Van Dijk was positive about the prospect of Barcola joining Liverpool, saying the potential arrival of the France international would demonstrate that the club remains capable of attracting elite players.

“He is a good player and he has pace. I remember a goal he scored against Chelsea in the Champions League last season. If he comes here, he will be welcomed with open arms,” Van Dijk said.

The Liverpool captain also stressed the appeal of playing for the club, despite the changes taking place around the squad.

“I do not think there is any doubt that a club like Liverpool is a very attractive destination for very good players. This is one of the biggest clubs in the world. We all know that we are going through something of a transition. Either you want to be part of it or you do not,” he said.

Van Dijk said adding quality to Liverpool’s squad could have a significant impact as the club prepares for the next stage of the season.

“Adding quality to the squad always makes a difference. We will see what the next few days will bring. After Tuesday, we have to fight for everything without any regrets,” he added.

The negotiations over Gakpo’s future remain ongoing as Manchester City weigh up a move for the forward, while Liverpool must decide whether Barcola’s potential arrival would provide sufficient cover for them to sanction a late departure.

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