As of February 24, 2026, Liverpool is reportedly weighing up a significant overhaul of their forward line, with Cody Gakpo‘s future at Anfield hanging in the balance.
Despite the Reds’ narrow 1–0 victory over Nottingham Forest—secured by a dramatic Alexis Mac Allister goal—the team’s performance has been widely criticized as one of the poorest under manager Arne Slot.
The “Gakpo Problem”
The 26-year-old Dutchman has faced mounting pressure from the Anfield faithful due to a sharp decline in form.
-
Goal Drought: Gakpo has managed only one goal in his last 12 Premier League appearances, leading to concerns that he lacks the clinical edge required for Slot’s high-octane system.
-
The Slot Verdict: While Slot has defended his compatriot in the past, reports from Shoot and Football Insider suggest the club is now willing to “open the door” for his departure if a suitable replacement is secured this summer.
-
Contract Status: Interestingly, Gakpo signed a contract extension in August 2025 (binding him until 2030), which means Liverpool would still command a high transfer fee, likely around €75 million.
The Bayern Connection
The situation is complicated by the shadow of Luis Diaz.
-
The Successor Search: Last summer, Bayern Munich aggressively pursued Diaz, eventually signing him for £65.5 million.
-
A Second Raid: With Diaz excelling in the Bundesliga, BILD and Bayern Source report that the German giants have now “pivoted” back to Gakpo. They view his versatility across the front three as a valuable asset, even if his recent goal-scoring record is poor.
Replacement Targets
Liverpool’s recruitment team is already scouting elite wingers to provide the “dribble-oriented” threat that Slot feels is currently missing.
-
Anthony Gordon (Newcastle): The boyhood Liverpool fan remains the top priority. Newcastle’s financial pressures could force them to listen to offers around £85M–£100M.
-
Jarrod Bowen (West Ham): Viewed as a more “work-rate focused” alternative, Bowen is considered a reliable option if the club also decides to move on from Mohamed Salah this summer.
-
Yan Diomande (RB Leipzig): German reports suggest a “personal agreement” may already be in place for the $118M-rated star.