Liverpool are facing yet another major squad upheaval this summer, with Cody Gakpo reportedly becoming the latest high-profile player to push for an exit following Arne Slot’s dismissal as manager.
The Dutch international has formally submitted a transfer request, citing concerns that his role at Anfield will diminish under the club’s incoming head coach, Andoni Iraola. According to Dutch outlet Soccernews, the 27-year-old does not see a long-term future at the club without Slot and is ready to move on.
From Hero to Uncertain Future
Gakpo arrived at Liverpool in January 2023 from PSV Eindhoven in a deal that eventually rose to €50 million (£44.3m/$60m). Since then, he has made 180 appearances for the Reds, scoring 50 goals and providing 23 assists — contributing a goal or assist every 2.46 games.
However, the 2025/26 season proved to be a deeply challenging one for both Gakpo and Liverpool. The winger endured prolonged periods of poor form and limited impact as the team struggled throughout the campaign, ultimately finishing fifth in the Premier League without securing any silverware.
Slot’s loyalty to Gakpo was well-documented. The former manager frequently selected him despite scrutiny from fans and media, and rewarded the player with a new long-term contract worth £250,000 per week, running until June 2030. That loyalty, it appears, is no longer enough to keep the Dutchman at Anfield.
New Era, New Doubts
With Liverpool now moving swiftly toward the appointment of Andoni Iraola, Gakpo reportedly fears his playing style will not align with the Basque coach’s more front-footed, intense approach. Sources claim the Netherlands international believes he will struggle for minutes in the new regime.
Historic interest from Bayern Munich has cooled, but Atletico Madrid have emerged as a potential destination. The Spanish club is said to be open to collaborating on a deal for the 49-cap winger this summer.
Crucially, Liverpool’s hierarchy is not expected to stand in Gakpo’s way. Despite his substantial wages and lengthy contract, the club is reportedly prepared to sanction his departure. This comes as they look to integrate exciting teenage talent Rio Ngumoha — who is on the verge of making his senior England debut — while potentially adding fresh attacking options under Iraola.
Market Value and Expert Views
Liverpool are understood to be seeking a minimum fee of €45 million (£39m/$52m) for the left-sided attacker.
The potential exit aligns with earlier predictions from leading transfer journalists. In March, Fabrizio Romano highlighted the need for Liverpool to refresh their wingers, noting the situations involving both Mohamed Salah (who is departing) and Gakpo. Pete O’Rourke had also suggested earlier in the year that signing a new left-sided attacker could open the door for Gakpo to leave, despite his contract and Slot’s public support.
As Liverpool prepare for a significant summer of transition, Gakpo’s transfer request marks another emotional blow for supporters. Once viewed as a key part of the club’s attacking future, the £250,000-a-week star now appears ready to turn the page — barely weeks after Slot’s exit.
Whether Atletico Madrid or another club can meet Liverpool’s valuation and satisfy Gakpo’s ambitions remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the post-Slot era at Anfield is already reshaping the squad in dramatic fashion.