Cody Gakpo sends reminder amid Liverpool transfer rumors as two 'targets' involved
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Cody Gakpo helped the Netherlands to victory in their final warm-up game ahead of the World Cup, with the Liverpool forward the subject of growing speculation over his futureCody Gakpo scored twice for the Netherlands amid speculation over his future at Liverpool(Image: Getty Images)Cody Gakpo was faultless from the spot as his two penalties helped the Netherlands to a 2-1 win over Uzbekistan ahead of the World Cup.The forward is one of three Liverpool players in action for the Dutch at this summer’s tournament, alongside Virgil van Dijk and Ryan Gravenberch. There’s no place for Jeremie Frimpong though, even after Jurrien Timber was ruled out through injury.Ronald Koeman’s side gets its tournament underway on Sunday as it takes on Japan in its opening group game, which could see the Liverpool trio come up against fellow teammate Wataru Endo, and Gakpo has got himself in the goals just in time.The 27-year-old struck twice against Uzbekistan, both from the spot, as he spared his country more blushes after losing to Algeria in their other warm-up game last week.Both penalties were won by players who have been linked with moves to Anfield this summer.
Crysencio Summerville, who looks likely to leave West Ham following relegation from the Premier League, was brought down for the opener, while Brighton’s Jan Paul van Hecke was fouled late on as Gakpo secured his side’s victory deep into stoppage time.Van Dijk, Gravenberch and Gakpo all started in what would appear to be an indication that all three will be in Koeman’s preferred team for the World Cup, but it was far from an ideal warm-up for the Dutch.Cody Gakpo scores from the spot for the Netherlands against Uzbekistan(Image: Getty Images)The game was played with no fans in attendance on a training pitch in New York. Goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen had to be substituted early in the second half, raising injury concerns on the eve of the World Cup, while midfielder Guus Til was sent off late on, having only been on the pitch for just over 15 minutes.Gakpo though will be pleased with his contribution after what was a difficult season with the Reds.
He will hope his goals can set him up for a positive World Cup, and send a reminder as speculation begins to grow over his future.The forward is being linked with a move away from Anfield this summer, with Dutch outlet Soccer News claiming Tottenham has held talks with his representatives, while he has also been touted as a possible makeweight in a swap deal for Yan Diomande.Get Liverpool's new 2026/27 home kitThis article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn moreLiverpool FC have launched their new home kit for the 2026/27, inspired by iconic adidas strip worn during the club's 1989/90 title-winning campaign.Rumors of Gakpo’s future come after Arne Slot was fired as head coach, with Andoni Iraola replacing him.