Cody Gakpo has caught Bayern Munich’s attention this summer, with the German club seriously considering a move for the Liverpool winger. This unexpected development puts Liverpool in a tricky spot regarding their attacking setup for next season.
Bayern’s Serious Pursuit
Bayern Munich currently lists Gakpo as their third choice for the left-wing spot, trailing Brighton’s Kaoru Mitoma and AC Milan’s Rafael Leao. Sky Sports Deutschland reporter Florian Plettenberg confirms Bayern has already made contact about Gakpo, and talks continue. Max Eberl, Bayern’s sporting director, rates the Dutch player highly.
The German giants need fresh attacking blood after watching Leroy Sane’s contract wind down and seeing Kingsley Coman plus Serge Gnabry lose their edge. Bayern apparently values Gakpo between €50-60 million, though some reports suggest they’d pay up to €90 million for his signature.
Liverpool’s Stance
Liverpool won’t block Gakpo’s exit if the right offer arrives. Sources indicate the Reds want around £75 million for their versatile forward. Arne Slot prefers keeping Gakpo, but money talks, especially with other squad priorities needing attention.
Gakpo delivered solid numbers during Liverpool’s Premier League title run, bagging 16 goals and adding six assists across 40 games in all competitions. His flexibility to play left-wing or false nine makes him valuable for Slot’s tactical approach.
What Liverpool Loses
Losing Gakpo creates a real headache for Liverpool’s attacking rotation. The 26-year-old offers crucial backup across multiple positions, covering when Mohamed Salah or Darwin Nunez need rest. His knack for drifting between wide and central areas gives Slot tactical options other players can’t provide.
Liverpool’s current front four depends on smart rotation, with Gakpo battling Luis Diaz for left-wing minutes. Taking one player out of this mix puts extra strain on everyone else, particularly with Champions League football back on the menu next season.
The timing isn’t ideal either. Darwin Nunez faces question marks about his future, with Atletico Madrid reportedly sniffing around. Meanwhile, Mohamed Salah enters his final contract year without signing an extension.
Replacement Options
Liverpool has already started looking at alternatives. Victor Osimhen from Napoli tops their list, with the Nigerian striker available for £62 million through a release clause. He’s been brilliant at Galatasaray this season, scoring 20 goals in 22 Turkish league games.
Former Feyenoord boss Rob Jacobs thinks Igor Paixao would actually improve Liverpool’s attack compared to Gakpo. The Brazilian winger has nine goals and nine assists in 25 Eredivisie matches this season, catching plenty of attention.
Federico Chiesa represents an internal solution, though the Italian has barely played since joining from Juventus last summer. His struggles adapting to English football raise doubts about filling Gakpo’s role effectively.
The Bigger Picture
Selling Gakpo brings both benefits and risks for Liverpool. The transfer fee funds other summer moves while cutting the wage bill. However, losing a proven Premier League performer weakens squad depth and forces reliance on untested alternatives.
Bayern wants Gakpo because their aging wingers need replacing. His Champions League experience, versatility, and goal threat make him perfect for their rebuild project.
What Happens Next
Bayern faces competition for Gakpo, though Liverpool looks most likely to sell at the right price. The German club’s preference for Mitoma and Leao might give Liverpool extra negotiating time.
Slot’s system needs wide forwards who can switch positions and contribute goals regularly. Gakpo ticks these boxes, making his potential departure a significant tactical challenge for the Dutch manager.
Gakpo’s possible Bayern move represents a gamble for Liverpool’s attacking future. While his sale generates transfer funds and creates squad space, losing a versatile performer who delivered in big moments creates immediate depth problems.
Liverpool’s summer success depends on finding adequate replacements who match Gakpo’s tactical flexibility and clutch performances when it matters most.
