Klopp Downplays Van Dijk’s Influence in Gakpo’s Liverpool Transfer

• Liverpool moved quickly to poach the Netherlands' World Cup star Cody Gakpo from PSV
• Much has been said about the influence of Dutch teammate Virgil van Dijk in the transfer
• Klopp has confirmed the player was already convinced and did not need Van Dijk to do that

Cody Gakpo has been on the radar of top English clubs since the summer, especially Manchester United, but a transfer could not be agreed with PSV Eindhoven and he stayed on.

He impressed for the Netherlands at the World Cup, scoring three goals as the Dutch reached the quarter-final, before getting knocked out by eventual champions Argentina.

Liverpool have now secured the services of the former PSV midfielder before the January transfer window opens, to avoid competition from other interested clubs.

Reds boss Jurgen Klopp has revealed how swift discussions were with the Dutchman.

Emmanuel Macron wants injured France stars present at World Cup final

Football

Klopp: Van Dijk wasn't needed

Gakpo revealed he spoke to national teammate and captain Virgil van Dijk, who he said had only nice things to say about the club that he referred to as a family.

However, Klopp has since said the World Cup star was already convinced when he spoke to him. The German made this known in an interview quoted by the Independent.

“When I was allowed to speak to him, it was one of those nice moments when you are manager of Liverpool FC. You think you have to convince someone and then you realise the door is wide open, so it’s more or less a home run. It was cool then. We didn’t need Virgil to convince him.”

The 23-year-old signed a six-year contract, the club's website stated, and he will wear the number 18 jersey formerly worn by former Liverpool and Netherlands striker Dirk Kuyt.

Ibrahimovic slams Cristiano Ronaldo and ten Hag for Man United beef

Football

Gakpo reveals chat with VVD

Regardless of what Klopp may say, Gakpo revealed he had chatted with Van Dijk ahead of his move to Liverpool, as reported by Sports Brief.

He confirmed his international captain had good things to say and told him that to take the next step in his career, Gakpo should come to Liverpool.

While there is debate on whether VVD or Klopp influenced the Dutch youngster's decision, the Reds will hope he can make a difference to their midfield structure.