Barcola Deal Opens New Question Over Gakpo's Liverpool Future

Liverpool's pursuit of Bradley Barcola has taken another turn, with Andoni Iraola refusing to guarantee Cody Gakpo's future as the Reds prepare for a potentially dramatic end to the transfer window.

Gakpo has started the season strongly and remains an important member of Iraola's squad, but Liverpool's impending £120 million agreement for Barcola has inevitably raised questions over how the club's attacking options will be balanced.

Iraola refuses to make promises

Asked whether he could guarantee Gakpo would remain at Liverpool beyond the transfer deadline, Iraola was unwilling to give a definitive answer.

The Liverpool boss praised the Dutchman's performances and attitude, but stressed that the transfer market can change quickly.

With the window still open, Iraola admitted that he "cannot guarantee anything" regarding his players' futures.

That does not mean Liverpool have decided to sell Gakpo.

Instead, it leaves the door open to a late development if the right offer arrives.

Barcola changes the picture

Liverpool's expected arrival of Barcola is the major reason Gakpo's situation is attracting attention.

The Reds have reportedly agreed a package worth £120m with Paris Saint-Germain, including more than £100m guaranteed and additional performance-related payments.

Barcola has been Liverpool's principal attacking target for much of the summer, and his arrival would give Iraola another elite option on the wing.

Liverpool are also reportedly interested in adding another wide player before the deadline.

That could create a crowded attacking department.

Gakpo still has admirers

Despite the uncertainty, Gakpo has given Liverpool little reason to want him out.

The 27-year-old scored Liverpool's opening goal in the 2-2 draw with Newcastle United on the opening weekend and has impressed during the early stages of Iraola's reign.

Iraola has also made it clear that he appreciates what the Netherlands international brings to his side.

The manager described Gakpo as highly influential and said he hopes the forward can maintain his current level.

Tottenham and City watching

Gakpo's situation is particularly interesting because there is already reported interest from Premier League rivals.

Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City have both been linked with the forward as the transfer deadline approaches.

Liverpool, however, remain in control of the situation.

Gakpo still has several years remaining on his contract, meaning any interested club would have to convince Liverpool to consider a sale.

Reports have suggested the Reds could demand around £70m if they were eventually prepared to listen to offers.

Liverpool face an intriguing decision

The situation ultimately comes down to squad planning.

Barcola's arrival would strengthen Liverpool significantly, but the club must also decide whether adding another major winger makes Gakpo expendable.

Iraola's comments suggest there is no final decision yet.

For now, Gakpo remains a Liverpool player, and his manager clearly values his contribution.

But with Barcola edging closer, the final days of the window could bring another major twist.

Liverpool may have found their new attacking star in Barcola — but his arrival has unexpectedly placed a spotlight on the future of one of their existing ones.

Fan Debate

🔥 FIRE: Should Liverpool keep Gakpo even after signing Barcola?

😲 SHOCK: Would you be surprised if Gakpo left before deadline day?

⚽ GOAL: Who would you rather have starting on the left — Gakpo or Barcola?

👍 LIKE: Has Gakpo done enough to deserve a guaranteed place in Iraola's plans?

💬 COMMENT: If Gakpo leaves, which club should sign him?