Gakpo joined Liverpool despite being linked with Man United
New Liverpool signing Cody Gakpo had a message for Manchester United after he completed his move earlier this week.
Gakpo joined the Reds on Boxing Day after PSV Eindhoven and Liverpool announced that a deal had been completed to bring the highly-rated Dutch winger to Anfield.
It ended months of speculation around the 23-year-old’s future. Gakpo was closely linked with other Premier League sides such as Leeds United and Southampton, but it was United who looked the favourites to sign him.
Despite all the talk a move never came to fruition and United instead opted to sign Antony even though Erik ten Hag had earmarked Gakpo as being a long-term target.
G A K P O
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— Liverpool FC (@LFC) December 28, 2022
Reflecting on the lengthy transfer saga, Gakpo told The Mirror: “It was difficult this summer. It was a very intense period.
“I tried to find my peace, but it was difficult. I thought I was going to Manchester United, but in the end it didn’t work out.
“Leeds United came in. They are a good club, but I asked myself if I should really go there and when you have a lot of doubts, it is not good.”
The winger has officially completed his move however manager Jürgen Klopp isn’t convinced that he will be registered in time to face Brentford on Monday night however he couldn’t hide his delight as securing the signing of another big talent.
“We are interested in Cody for a long time. The things he offers already are incredibly interesting. He has so many things to be excited about.”
Jürgen Klopp on new signing Cody Gakpo.
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— Football Daily (@footballdaily) December 30, 2022
“We’ve been impressed by him for a while,” Klopp said.
“He’s a very interesting player – he was really well respected when he was coming through the PSV youth academy.
“We think it’s the right moment to bring him in. He’s still young – what he offers is incredibly interesting, in the short and long term because of his versatility.
“He has a good nose for a finishing situation, he’s quick, a good dribbler. He’s not quite the finished product yet, but usually players develop well here.”
Related links:
- The reason why Cody Gakpo chose Liverpool over Man United
- Fans rush to get Cristiano Ronaldo shirts after Al Nassr move
- Erik ten Hag explains Marcus Rashford omission from Man United starting XI
