Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has implored the club's hierarchy to block the sale of Cody Gakpo as Manchester City prepare a bid. The Dutch defender's strong public stance comes with the summer transfer window closing on Tuesday night.
Van Dijk spoke after Liverpool's 2-2 draw with Nottingham Forest, a result that leaves the team 11th in the Premier League with two points from two games. The club has scored four goals and conceded four, sitting four points behind leaders Manchester City. Their next match is away to Ipswich on September 4th.
Virgil van Dijk made his feelings clear when asked about the potential departure of his teammate. "What do you think? He's a quality player. I think we should keep quality players. Let's see what the next few days bring," the captain stated. He expanded on his reasoning, highlighting the personal and professional bond. "I want him to stay not only because he's a quality player, but also because he's a friend of mine."
The pair have been teammates at Liverpool for nearly four years and have also played together for the Netherlands national team for several seasons. Van Dijk's intervention adds a significant voice to the internal debate at Anfield as the deadline approaches.
Reports from The Athletic indicate that Cody Gakpo, the 27-year-old winger, has decided he wants to join Manchester City. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has claimed City are 'set to bid' £85 million for the player. All parties are understood to be in discussions over a potential deal.
Gakpo has started the current season with a goal and an assist in two appearances, showing a positive response after a difficult 2025/26 campaign. His potential sale would represent a major shift in Liverpool's attacking options, especially with several players currently sidelined including Joe Gomez and Federico Chiesa. Fans can check the full list on our injuries page.
The report, which cites The Express for Van Dijk's quotes, urges owners Fenway Sports Group not to sanction Gakpo's exit. It warns that the repercussions could set the club back for several years, particularly as Liverpool have been floundering in the early stages of this season.
At the same time, Liverpool are linked with a move for French attacker Bradley Barcola in what is described as a megabucks deal. The report speculates there is room for both Barcola and Gakpo in the lineup, as both players are versatile enough to play anywhere across the front line. Barcola would be expected to become an automatic starter if he arrives.
The immediate future hinges on the club's response to Manchester City's expected offer and the influence of senior figures like Van Dijk. The captain's very public message places pressure on the decision-makers at a critical juncture. With the team seeking its first win of the season, squad stability is a major concern.
Liverpool's league position and goal difference show the need for consistency. The coming days will reveal whether the board heeds their captain's call or accepts a massive fee for a key attacker. Supporters can follow the team's progress in the standings and view the upcoming fixtures as this transfer saga reaches its conclusion.
