New Delhi, August 31: As the race for the summer transfer window reaches a pulsating end, the Liverpool captain has made a public statement out of the blue to convince Cody Gakpo to stay at Anfield.
The Liverpool captain has highlighted the vital role Gakpo plays in the squad for the Reds.
Van Dijk has weighed in on Cody Gakpo's future amid reports that Manchester City have opened talks with Liverpool over a potential move for the versatile forward. The 27-year-old has emerged as a key target for Enzo Maresca's side with the summer transfer window entering its final hours.
Having shared the dressing room with Gakpo at both club and international level, Van Dijk is keen for the forward to resist the pull of the Etihad and remain at Anfield, where he continues to be part of the project under Andoni Iraola.
Expressing his desire to keep the squad's core together, Van Dijk was unequivocal about Gakpo's importance to the side. "He's a quality player, and I think we should keep quality players, but let's see what the next three days bring," the captain said. "Obviously it's pretty clear that I want him to stay, not only because he is the quality player that he is, but also he's a friend of mine, and I think he will be very important for us."
Manchester City's Last-Minute Deal For Cody Gakpo
Manchester City's last-minute bid for Cody Gakpo has sent shockwaves across the Premier League, with the Cityzens reportedly ready to pay a hefty sum of £75 million to secure the Dutch international. Gakpo has been a standout performer for the Reds in the last few seasons.
In the ongoing season as well, Gakpo has been shining brightly for the 2024 Premier League champions despite the 2-2 draws against Newcastle and Nottingham Forest, registering a goal and an assist in the opening fixtures. However, the Reds appear increasingly willing to consider significant offers as they look to balance the books following their own heavy investment in the squad during this window.
While City are the frontrunners, they are not the only ones monitoring the situation. Reports suggest that Liverpool view Gakpo as a proven multi-functional Premier League attacker, yet they have maintained an understanding all summer that they would not stand in his way if a substantial offer arrived.
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