Cody Gakpo’s future at Liverpool is under fresh scrutiny after the Netherlands forward hinted that his role for club and country differs significantly, while the Reds continue to strengthen their attacking options.
The 27-year-old impressed by scoring twice in the Netherlands’ World Cup victory over Sweden, taking his tournament tally to five goals in seven World Cup appearances across the 2022 and 2026 editions. After the match, Gakpo acknowledged that he enjoys a different role with the Dutch national team but stopped short of expanding on the tactical differences with Liverpool.
His comments come at a time when Liverpool are reshaping their forward line under new manager Andoni Iraola.
The Premier League champions recently completed the £34.5 million signing of Spanish winger Victor Munoz from Osasuna on a six-year contract, while the club continue to pursue RB Leipzig teenager Yan Diomande. Liverpool have already had an opening €100 million bid rejected for the highly-rated Ivory Coast international but are expected to return with an improved offer.
The arrivals increase competition in Gakpo’s preferred position on the left wing, raising questions about his long-term role at Anfield.
After helping Liverpool win the Premier League in 2024-25 with 18 goals and seven assists in 49 appearances, Gakpo experienced a more difficult campaign last season. Despite featuring in more matches, he managed nine goals and six assists as Liverpool’s attack struggled for consistency.
Liverpool still regard the Dutch international as an important member of the squad. His versatility allows him to operate on either wing or through the middle, providing valuable cover following Hugo Ekitike’s long-term Achilles injury. At the same time, highly-rated youngster Rio Ngumoha is expected to feature more regularly, while Florian Wirtz has also been used from the left for both club and country.
Interest in Gakpo has not gone unnoticed elsewhere. Reports suggest Tottenham Hotspur are among the clubs monitoring his situation should Liverpool decide to cash in. Any deal would likely command a fee of more than £60 million, representing a significant profit on the £35 million Liverpool paid PSV Eindhoven in 2022.
For now, Gakpo’s immediate focus remains on the World Cup, where he has once again demonstrated his ability to deliver on the biggest stage. His goals against Sweden served as a timely reminder of his quality at a time when competition for places at Liverpool is intensifying.
Whether Liverpool’s summer recruitment strengthens Gakpo’s position or ultimately pushes him towards the exit could become one of the club’s biggest transfer stories before the window closes.
