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Cody Gakpo on Bayern Munich’s Radar as Barcelona’s Plans Stall

Bayern Munich have begun exploring attacking alternatives to Nico Williams, and Liverpool’s Cody Gakpo is now on their radar, according to a report by Florian Plettenberg of Sky Sports Germany. With Barcelona facing persistent financial difficulties, their deal for Williams hangs in the balance, leaving the door open for others.

Plettenberg’s report outlines how Max Eberl, Bayern’s sporting director, is keeping “contacts with other targets: Barcola (Luis Campos is very keen to keep him), Mitoma, Leao and Gakpo.” It’s a shortlist loaded with talent and international pedigree. Gakpo’s inclusion signals a significant recognition of his impact at Anfield and perhaps, Bayern’s belief that Liverpool could be open to negotiation.

Gakpo’s Value Under Arne Slot

Gakpo joined Liverpool from PSV Eindhoven in January 2023 and has evolved steadily into a versatile and reliable attacker. During Arne Slot’s title-winning campaign last season, the Dutch forward made valuable contributions, often deployed across multiple positions to fit the system.

Still just 25, Gakpo represents the modern, technical, and intelligent forward favoured in elite European football. Under Slot, a fellow Dutchman, Gakpo found renewed confidence and form, pushing past inconsistent spells to become a dependable squad asset.

However, Liverpool’s current forward depth remains a work in progress. With Luis Díaz continuously linked to Barcelona and Saudi Arabia, allowing Gakpo to depart this summer would stretch the front line. Any negotiations would likely require a significant offer, both to reflect Gakpo’s pedigree and to convince Liverpool that his exit is manageable.

Bayern’s Broader Transfer Picture

While Gakpo is one of several names mentioned, his Premier League success and familiarity with top-level football make him a potentially smoother transition for Bayern. That said, competition for attacking reinforcements is fierce this summer. Rafael Leão and Kaoru Mitoma offer different profiles, while Barcola, though highly-rated, may remain in Paris due to Luis Campos’ determination to retain him.

Plettenberg’s report is the first notable link between Bayern and Gakpo this summer. It arrives at a crucial time, just as Liverpool are restructuring their squad and preparing to unveil their record-breaking signing, Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen. Should the Gakpo-Bayern interest solidify, it could form part of a broader ripple effect that shapes both Liverpool’s and Bayern’s summer windows.

Photo: IMAGO

Liverpool’s Response Remains Key

For now, there’s no indication that Liverpool are entertaining offers. But if Bayern’s interest materialises into a formal bid, it will test the club’s resolve and planning. Gakpo may not always start, but his tactical flexibility and chemistry with Slot make him more than a bench option.

The Reds’ stance is likely firm for now. But as the transfer window rolls on, and other pieces start to fall into place across Europe, Cody Gakpo could find himself in the middle of an unexpected summer saga.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a fan’s perspective, it’s fair to say that seeing Gakpo on a Bayern shortlist is both flattering and frustrating. We all saw flashes of what he can become under Slot, especially as he seemed to build up confidence during the title run. He’s not first-choice every week, but that doesn’t mean he’s expendable.

The reality is, with Luis Díaz already being eyed by Barcelona and the Saudis waving cash around, selling Gakpo would be a bold move unless a massive offer came in and a strong replacement was lined up. There’s also the Dutch link with Slot, which shouldn’t be underestimated. Gakpo knows the system, trusts the manager, and seems to be developing well.

From a depth and tactical point of view, he offers too much to just be let go unless it’s part of a bigger plan. If we are building around Wirtz, Jota, Salah (or his replacement), and someone like Amoura, then maybe there’s logic to it. But for now, we’d hold tight and make Bayern look elsewhere. Let’s not forget what happened when we sold Mané without a clear plan…

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