Andoni Iraola has admitted that he cannot guarantee Cody Gakpo will remain at Liverpool beyond the transfer deadline. The Liverpool head coach praised the Netherlands international’s attitude and recent performances but acknowledged that the squad could still change significantly before the window closes.
“When the market is open, you cannot guarantee anything with anyone,” Iraola said. “Cody has been very good since returning from the World Cup. He has the right attitude and can be very influential for us, but we have to wait and see what happens.”
Gakpo scored Liverpool’s opening goal in their 2–2 draw with Newcastle United and has impressed since returning to club duty. However, his future has become uncertain as Liverpool continue to reshape their attack and pursue Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola.
Liverpool have reached an agreement in principle for Barcola in a deal worth more than £100 million initially, with add-ons potentially taking the package to £120 million. Iraola refused to confirm that the transfer had been completed but admitted that Liverpool are actively trying to strengthen the wide attacking positions.
“We are trying to sign in that position,” Iraola said. “We cannot talk about players who are not ours, but it is clear that we are trying to improve because we do not have the numbers. Hopefully there will be good news soon, but the deal is not finished yet.”
Barcola’s potential arrival could affect Gakpo’s position in the squad. Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City have shown interest in the Liverpool forward, although neither club has yet held formal negotiations with Liverpool. The Reds are understood to be reluctant to sell unless they can secure sufficient replacements.
Liverpool’s attacking options have already changed considerably this summer. The club have moved on from Mohamed Salah and other established forwards while investing heavily in Alexander Isak, Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitike. The arrival of Barcola would add further competition and give Iraola more flexibility across the front three.
Gakpo’s ability to play as a winger or central forward remains valuable to Liverpool, particularly while the new signings adapt to the Premier League. The Dutchman is under contract until 2030, meaning Liverpool are in a strong negotiating position if offers arrive before the deadline.
Iraola also has several young players available for evaluation, including Rio Ngumoha and Keyrol Figueroa. Their development could influence Liverpool’s decision-making, although the manager is expected to continue prioritizing experience while the club competes domestically and in Europe.
For now, Gakpo remains a Liverpool player and is preparing for the club’s next Premier League fixture. However, Iraola’s comments underline the uncertainty surrounding the squad, with the forward’s future likely to remain one of the central transfer stories until the window closes.
