Andoni Iraola's feelings on Cody Gakpo emerge as Liverpool transfer decision spells trouble
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It emerged on Wednesday evening that the Reds had edged ahead of Newcastle United in the pursuit of the Spain international after agreeing to trigger the reported €40million (£34.6million) release clause in his Osasuna contract.The 22-year-old winger has already completed his medical while on World Cup 2026 duty and is set to put pen to paper on a six-year deal ahead of his move to Anfield. Iraola's appointment as Liverpool's head coach was only confirmed earlier this month, yet the Spaniard is already poised to welcome his fellow countryman to the club.However, it isn't entirely plain sailing for the 43-year-old, as the capture of Munoz could have significant consequences for Cody Gakpo's future at the club.
The Dutchman has impressed throughout his three-and-a-half-year spell on Merseyside but endured a frustrating 2025/26 campaign, netting just seven league goals.Aside from his most recent season, Gakpo had consistently shared left-wing responsibilities with Luis Diaz. But following the Colombian's departure last year and the club's choice not to bring in a replacement - instead handing an opportunity to Rio Ngumoha - the 27-year-old became Arne Slot's first-choice option in that position.It's a position Gakpo seriously struggled in as his underwhelming displays left supporters exasperated, and the lack of Diaz's pace and attacking thrust became increasingly apparent.Less than a year has passed since the Netherlands international put pen to paper on a fresh deal, but Munoz's arrival and his versatility to operate across the forward line could see Gakpo looking for a new club.Liverpool can undoubtedly demand a substantial fee for Gakpo, who only celebrated his 27th birthday last month and had been a consistent performer for the Reds until this campaign.The emergence of Ngumoha could also influence the Dutchman's circumstances, as the 17-year-old experienced a remarkable breakthrough season, leading to him earning his England debut.The winger's potential appears boundless, with his talent being appreciated by Bayern Munich, who targeted him for a transfer before Liverpool dismissed any possibility of the youngster leaving.FOLLOW OUR LIVERPOOL FB PAGE!
Latest Reds news and more on our dedicated Facebook pageThe signing of Munoz, who is nearly five years Ngumoha's senior, will offer the teenager suitable competition, but doesn't carry sufficient standing to hinder the progression of the Reds starlet. The two attackers share comparable qualities, both boasting blistering pace and a willingness to take on full-backs that is increasingly rare in the modern game.Given Iraola's intense, high-pressing philosophy, Munoz would certainly appear to be a better fit than Gakpo, though whether he will begin the new campaign as Liverpool's first-choice left-winger is yet to be determined.England's 2026 World Cup kitsThis article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it.