Iraola praises Cody Gakpo but refuses to guarantee Liverpool stay amid Barcola move

Andoni Iraola has praised Cody Gakpo’s impressive start to the season but admits he cannot guarantee that the Netherlands international will remain at Liverpool beyond the transfer deadline.

Gakpo has been linked with a move away from Anfield for much of the summer, with Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City reportedly interested in the winger.

His situation could become even more intriguing because Liverpool are closing in on Paris Saint-Germain forward Bradley Barcola, potentially increasing the competition for attacking positions in Iraola’s squad.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding his future, Gakpo has continued to make an impact for Liverpool.

The Dutchman scored against Newcastle United on Sunday and has impressed Iraola since returning from his post-World Cup holiday.

“I can repeat what I’ve said over the past week, even after his performance in the first game,” Iraola said.

“I’ll say it again: he’s playing very well for us.”

The Liverpool manager has been particularly pleased with Gakpo's mentality since returning to the squad.

“He’s been doing very well since he came back from his World Cup holiday, with a very good attitude,” Iraola added.

“I hope we can maintain this level because I think he’s had a big influence on our games.”

However, Iraola stopped short of confirming that Gakpo will still be a Liverpool player once the transfer window closes.

With several days of business remaining and Liverpool carrying a large squad, the Spaniard acknowledged that circumstances can change quickly.

“As long as the transfer window is open, you can’t guarantee anything about anyone,” he explained.

“We have almost 30 players and you never know who is coming.”

Iraola admitted he would prefer to already know exactly what his squad will look like after Deadline Day but accepts that is impossible while negotiations continue.

One major development to watch is Liverpool's pursuit of Barcola.

The Reds are close to signing the PSG attacker, which would provide Iraola with another high-level option capable of playing from the left.

Barcola's arrival would significantly increase competition for Gakpo, although Iraola's comments make clear the Dutchman remains an important player at present.

Tottenham and Manchester City have both been linked with Gakpo and could therefore be worth watching if his situation changes following Barcola's arrival.

Liverpool's expected move for Bradley Barcola could be crucial to what happens next with Gakpo.

For now, Iraola clearly remains happy with the Netherlands international and his performances. But with Tottenham and Manchester City linked and the Liverpool manager refusing to guarantee anyone's future before the deadline, Gakpo's situation remains one to watch during the final days of the window.