John de Jong – Director of Football at PSV Eindhoven – has been speaking to PSV TV about Cody Gakpo, after interest from Liverpool and Arsenal.
What’s the story?
Well, the Premier League duo are said to be interested in the 22-year-old, who is enjoying a fine season for PSV Eindhoven.
Liverpool and Arsenal have been alerted to the 4-cap Netherlands international after he scored ten goals, and provided 11 assists, in 28 games this season.
It was Voetbal International who revealed that Liverpool are interested in the Dutchman, whereas Foot Mercato claimed Arsenal are keen to sign the man valued at £25m.
Now, De Jong has commented on the interest in PSV Eindhoven’s gem.
As quoted by Voetbal Primeur, he said: “The interest started early in the season, when he performed well, also with the Dutch national team.
“My goal is to keep him for the season at all times. I don’t know how long we can keep him out of the hands of the big clubs in Europe. How he performs is the most important thing.”
In our view, that should offer hope to Jürgen Klopp and Mikel Arteta.
Of course, De Jong wants Gakpo to stay, but the fact he cannot say for certain that Europe’s giants will be fended off is certainly intriguing.
Liverpool should leave Cody Gakpo to Arsenal
In our view, Liverpool have no need for Gakpo after completing the signing of Luis Diaz from Porto.
The Colombian operates on the left flank, where he will have to oust Sadio Mané from Klopp’s starting XI.
Seeing as Gakpo also operates on the left wing, that area would become far too crowded if the Reds signed the Dutchman.
We feel Liverpool should wait until Mané leaves Anfield to make a push for Gakpo, if he’s on the market at that point.
In the present, Arsenal are much better placed to sign the PSV Eindhoven No.11.
Arteta only has a handful of attacking options, and none who can competently deputise for Gabriel Martinelli on the left flank.
The Spaniard should also be an attraction in himself for young players like Gakpo, as he has shown a desire to put his trust in prospects and give them plenty of playing time.
Keep an eye on this saga, as De Jong’s comments leave the door wide open.
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