Cody Gakpo, a new Liverpool forward, stated that he expected to play for Manchester United and unwittingly took a dig at Leeds United when reminiscing his abandoned alternate options.

Liverpool lived up to their reputation as canny operators in the transfer market when hijacking Man Utd’s move for Cody Gakpo.

The Dutchman looked on course for a move to Old Trafford to begin 2023, though the Reds swooped when securing a deal worth an initial £37m.

The former PSV Eindhoven attacker had long been expected to make the Premier League his next home. Indeed, a summer move was heavily rumoured with Man Utd, Leeds Utd and Southampton all linked.

Erik ten Hag held multiple discussions with Gakpo, though ultimately prioritised the signing of Antony instead. If Gakpo proves a success on Merseyside, that decision will come under greater scrutiny in future years.

Leeds and the Saints always appeared outsiders given Man Utd’s presence in the race. However, that didn’t stop the Whites chartering a private jet in the final hours of the summer window in the event a move quickly rounded into shape.

In the end, PSV and Gakpo kept their powder dry and six months and 36 goal contributions for club and country later, the Dutchman is now at Anfield.

Now, speaking to the Mirror, Gakpo has opened up on two of his failed moves to Man Utd and Leeds.

Leeds didn’t get Gakpo’s blood pumping

Gakpo admitted he believed he was bound for Old Trafford in what was a “difficult” and “intense” summer amid rampant speculation.

He also inadvertently took a swipe at Leeds when revealing his inner doubts as to whether they were of the standard required for a player of his calibre.

“It was difficult this summer,” said Gakpo. “It was a very intense period.

“I tried to find my peace, but it was difficult. I thought I was going to Manchester United, but in the end it didn’t work out.

“Leeds United came in. They are a good club, but I asked myself if I should really go there and when you have a lot of doubts, it is not good.”

Cody Gakpo shows maturity in self-assessment

Jurgen Klopp recently suggested Monday night’s clash with Brentford could come too soon for Gakpo to make his debut.

A likelier first appearance could come against Wolves in the FA Cup third round on January 7.

Klopp and Liverpool will be hoping for an instant impact given the nature of their depleted forward line.

Luis Diaz has undergone a second knee surgery, while Diogo Jota isn’t expected back until February. Roberto Firmino too is sidelined through injury at present.

Gakpo has certainly shown he has the game to contribute at the highest level, though stressed he’s intent on continuing to improve and the first step revolves around decision-making.

“I think I can still make many steps, can do better, and can improve as a player,” continued Gakpo.

“Even in Qatar, I became a better footballer in record time because I played with the best players in the Netherlands and came up against the greatest footballers from other countries.

“It was hard to define exactly how I was improving while I was out there. But once the World Cup was over, I had time to analyse things.

“I used to play on a more individual level and rely on my instincts. I would take lots of players on and try to do something special every time I got the ball.

“Now I realise I have to think more about the team. I have to choose the right moment to dribble and make actions. I have taken steps to recognise that.”

source: https://www.teamtalk.com/