By Ken Andrew
kennyandrewmuganda@gmail.com
Dutch World Cup star Cody Gakpo has agreed to join Liverpool in the January transfer window, after months of being linked with Manchester United. Gakpo was Netherlands’ top scorer at the world cup with three goals. Following his performances with PSV at the start of the season and for the Dutch in Qatar, a big move was imminent.
There is speculation that the 23 year old’s decision was influenced by national, and soon to be club, teammate Virgil Van Dijk. The two spoke when Liverpool submitted their bid.
Manchester United were odds on favourites to sign Gakpo but Liverpool hijacked the deal at the last moment. It is reported that United representatives conceded defeat rather than tabling a counter offer. The signing leaves United still in search for a clinical forward.
The deal is said to cost around $54 million. Both suitors were discussing around that amount but Liverpool had more to offer upfront. The deal is a record for PSV who have never received such an amount for a player before.
Gakpo will link with the likes of Mohammed Salah and Darwin Nunez in the Liverpool frontline. He is also versatile enough to play in an attacking midfield role for the reds.
Liverpool currently sit sixth in the Premier League on 25 points.
All contracts have been signed and Gakpo will travel to England to complete the deal.
The move is subject to a medical and will be completed once the transfer window officially opens in January.
