Virgil van Dijk has urged Liverpool to hold on to winger Cody Gakpo as Manchester City pursues a transfer before the August 1 Premier League deadline [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]. City reportedly offered between £75 million and £85 million for the 27-year-old attacker, with sources varying on the exact figure—around £75 million according to some and £85 million according to others [1, 2, 3, 5].
Gakpo has scored 51 goals in three and a half years at Liverpool and was a key player in their 2024-25 Premier League title run [1, 2, 3, 4]. He started the current 2026-27 season with a goal and an assist in Liverpool's opening two draws, contributing in matches against Newcastle and Nottingham Forest [1, 2, 3, 4]. Despite strong performances, his position in the squad may be under pressure following Liverpool's signing of Bradley Barcola from Paris Saint-Germain for up to £123 million ($166 million), making Barcola the second most expensive player ever in the Premier League [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]. Barcola's arrival is expected to push Gakpo down the pecking order [1, 2, 3, 4, 5].
Liverpool finished fifth last season and are reportedly undergoing a transition under new manager Andoni Iraola [1, 2, 3, 5]. Injuries to other forwards such as Ekitike and Isak add uncertainty about allowing Gakpo to leave [4]. Van Dijk said, "He's a quality player and I think we should keep quality players, but let’s see what the next three days bring. 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" [1]. He added that Liverpool remain one of the biggest clubs, and Barcola would be welcomed with open arms if his transfer completes, but said it was too early to discuss the new signing in depth [3].
Gakpo reportedly prefers a move to Manchester City over Tottenham, who have also shown interest [4]. Manchester City officially contacted Liverpool about the transfer on August 29 [4]. Meanwhile, Liverpool agreed on the deal for Barcola by August 30, pending a medical scheduled for August 31 [5]. Liverpool’s next transfer deadline is August 1, putting pressure on both clubs to finalize negotiations soon.
