Liverpool reach agreement to sign Netherlands international from PSV Eindhoven
Cody Gakpo’s stock increased at the World Cup with three goals in five appearances for the Netherlands; Man Utd had shown interest in Gakpo in the summer before pursuing a deal for Antony from Ajax; Southampton had an offer rejected for the 23-year-old in the summer
Liverpool have reached an agreement to sign Cody Gakpo for a fee between £35m and £45m from PSV, the Dutch club have announced.
A PSV statement on Monday said: “PSV and LFC have reached an agreement on the proposed transfer of Cody Gakpo.”The 23-year-old attacker will leave for England imminently, where he will be subjected to the necessary formalities ahead of the completion of the transfer.”
Liverpool’s rivals Manchester United were interested in Gakpo in the summer, when they instead signed Antony from Ajax, but reports suggested they were considering a move for the Netherlands international in the upcoming January transfer window.
United boss Erik ten Hag wants to sign a forward in January following Cristiano Ronaldo’s exit, saying: “We are aware we lost a striker, so I think we have to get a striker in, but it has to be the right one.”
Southampton had an offer rejected for Gakpo in the summer, while Leeds were also keen on the 23-year-old.
Gakpo’s stock increased at the World Cup with three goals in five appearances before the Netherlands were knocked out at the quarter-final stage on penalties to Argentina.
Before PSV released their statement, it was understood Liverpool were in advanced talks with the Dutch side about the transfer as they looked to bring in another attacking player following long-term injuries to Luis Diaz and Diogo Jota.
The transfer window opens on Sunday January 1 for clubs in England and Scotland and if all the necessary paperwork is completed then Gakpo could be in line for a Liverpool debut on January 2, live on Monday Night Football at Brentford.