Gakpo Joins Liverpool in £35m-£45m Deal
Liverpool have pulled off a major coup by signing Dutch sensation Cody Gakpo from PSV Eindhoven in a deal worth between £35m and £45m. The 23-year-old forward, who impressed at the 2022 World Cup with three goals in five appearances, has signed a long-term contract until 2028 after completing his medical at Merseyside this week.
Why Gakpo Chose Anfield
In an exclusive interview with Mostbet, Gakpo revealed how Virgil van Dijk played a pivotal role in his decision: “We spoke extensively during the negotiation period. Virgil emphasized how Liverpool would be perfect for my development – a massive club with family values that align with my personality.”
The young Dutch international added: “I’m thrilled to join this historic club and can’t wait to contribute to Liverpool’s success. Having Virgil here will help me settle faster.”
Tactical Flexibility for Klopp’s System
Jurgen Klopp sees Gakpo as the ideal versatile attacker for his system. As Mostbet football analyst Mark Thompson notes: “Gakpo’s ability to play across the front three gives Klopp crucial options. His 6’2″ frame adds aerial threat, while his technical skills suit Liverpool’s pressing game.”
Key attributes Gakpo brings to Anfield:
- Versatility across all forward positions
- Clinical finishing with both feet
- Creative playmaking (led Eredivisie in chances created)
- Physical presence in aerial duels
Addressing Liverpool’s Injury Crisis
The timing of this signing is crucial for Liverpool, who face:
- Luis Diaz out until February (knee setback)
- Diogo Jota sidelined with calf injury
- Roberto Firmino recovering from muscle issue
“With our current situation, Cody’s arrival is perfectly timed,” Klopp told Mostbet. “He’s already an excellent player at 23 but has the mentality to improve further.”
How Gakpo Compares to Liverpool’s Current Attackers
| Statistic | Gakpo (2022/23) | Salah | Nunez | Diaz (pre-injury) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Goals | 13 | 16 | 9 | 4 |
| Assists | 17 | 6 | 3 | 3 |
| Key Passes/90 | 2.8 | 2.1 | 1.7 | 1.9 |
| Aerial Won % | 48% | 35% | 52% | 38% |
Data from Eredivisie and Premier League 2022/23 season
What Experts Are Saying
Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher told Mostbet: “Gakpo reminds me of a young Thierry Henry with his combination of pace, power and technical ability. At £35m, this could be one of Liverpool’s smartest signings in years.”
Netherlands manager Louis van Gaal added: “Cody has everything to become a world-class player. His work ethic is exceptional – he even hired a personal tactics coach to analyze his game.”
Immediate Impact Potential
Gakpo could make his debut as early as January 2nd against Brentford. While he needs time to adapt to Premier League intensity, his physical attributes and tactical intelligence suggest he could hit the ground running.
“Liverpool’s system is perfect for Gakpo,” notes Mostbet tactical expert Sarah Johnson. “He’ll thrive in transition situations and provide the creative spark they’ve sometimes lacked this season.”
Long-Term Projection
At just 23, Gakpo represents both an immediate solution and long-term investment. His potential partnership with Darwin Nunez could define Liverpool’s attack for years to come. With proper development under Klopp, many believe he could reach similar heights to fellow countryman Virgil van Dijk.
Mostbet verdict: Liverpool have secured one of Europe’s most exciting young attackers at a reasonable price. While the fee seems substantial, Gakpo’s versatility, potential and immediate impact make this a shrewd piece of business that could pay dividends in their push for Champions League qualification and beyond.
