Cody Gakpo is now set to remain at Anfield for the foreseeable future after the club ran out of time to secure a late replacement before the summer transfer window set to slam shut in 24hours.
The Dutch forward had seen his future hanging in the balance amid late window chaos and strong interest from Manchester City, with his next steps entirely dependent on whether Liverpool could push a deal over the line for primary target Ismaïla Sarr.
However, with Crystal Palace standing firm and time running out ahead of Tuesday's deadline day, Liverpool's inability to land a new wide player means Gakpo will now stay put on Merseyside and continue to be a key part of the squad under Andoni Iraola
The 27-year-old winger was heavily linked with a move to Manchester City for a reported fee of around £85 million pounds. Gakpo is said to have agreed personal terms with Enzo Maresca’s side, but would also be willing to stay should the club decide that to be his fate.
Earlier in the day on Monday Fabrizio Romano mentioned whether the Dutchman is free to leave or not “all depends on Ismaila Sarr’s situation.”
Galatasaray have already seen two bids knocked back for the Senegalese winger, while Liverpool's initial summer enquiries were similarly rebuffed not just once but twice. Crystal Palace are holding firm and demanding an eye-watering £70 million package to part ways with their star man.
The Reds might still test the waters again for Sarr, but previously clarified that following the £123 million arrival of Bradley Barcola, there would be "no further first-team incomings unless there are late departures." That stance now pairs with David Ornstein's confirmation that Cody Gakpo is definitely staying put.
🚨 BREAKING: Cody Gakpo to stay at Liverpool. Manchester City had £75m + £5m bid rejected by #LFC & pursuit over - confirmed between all sides in direct communication. #MCFC now fully focused on attempting to sign Enzo Fernandez from Chelsea @TheAthleticFC https://t.co/r47xBCrALk
— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) August 31, 2026
Following the £123 million arrival of Bradley Barcola, Cody Gakpo might face a fight for regular minutes down the left flank, but his recent performances have showcased why keeping him at Anfield is a massive boost. Rather than pushing for an exit, Gakpo can now use that fierce competition to battle for his spot and prove his worth in a crowded Liverpool attack.
In the 2-2 draw against Nottingham Forest, Gakpo was deployed off the right wing to great effect, with Victor Munoz operating down the left. The 27-year-old was once again a bright spark in the Reds’ attack, even picking up the assist for Alexander Isak’s first goal of the season. Not only that, but with Hugo Ekitike sidelined for an extended period with a ruptured Achilles, Gakpo provides vital cover for Isak.
From a fan perspective, keeping Gakpo is music to the ears. There was a growing confusion as to why the club were willing to let him go in the first place, let alone to a rival in Manchester City.
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