Liverpool star spotted in London and Paris after exit links ahead of Jeremie Frimpong transfer

For the majority of the 2024/25 season, Cody Gakpo appeared to be the Liverpool forward with the most secure future at Anfield. Reinstated in his favored left-wing position by new head coach Arne Slot, the Dutch international enjoyed what many consider his best season with the Reds to date.

Gakpo made a total of 49 appearances across all competitions, netting 18 goals and providing six assists. His importance was underscored by the fact that only Mohamed Salah and Luis Diaz clocked more appearances. The forward’s form was crucial to Liverpool’s campaign until a knee injury in February abruptly halted his momentum. Unfortunately, Liverpool’s performances dipped following his absence, coinciding with early exits from both the Champions League and the League Cup.

Throughout the season, amidst ongoing contract negotiations involving Salah and frequent rumors of exits involving Diaz, Darwin Nunez, Diogo Jota, and Federico Chiesa, Gakpo stood out as the lone forward who seemed certain to remain at the club. His consistency and adaptability under Slot made him a dependable figure in Liverpool’s attack.

However, as the Premier League season concluded, speculation about Gakpo’s future suddenly intensified. Unexpectedly, the forward found himself linked with a move away from Anfield. Reports emerged from Sky Germany suggesting that Bayern Munich were considering a swoop for the Dutchman.

Given Liverpool’s apparent lead in signing Bayer Leverkusen star Florian Wirtz, many initially dismissed the rumors as Bayern mischief or distraction tactics. However, the Daily Mail later confirmed there was some substance to the claims, while also noting Liverpool’s reluctance to sell one of their key attackers.

Despite the swirling speculation, Gakpo appeared unfazed. In a busy week marking the start of the Reds’ summer break before players report for international duty, Gakpo was seen in London attending the UK premiere of Netflix’s sports documentary series, ‘F1: The Academy,’ held at Leicester Square.

Shortly after, Gakpo was spotted in Paris at the French Open, taking in the Men’s Singles Second Round clash between Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz and Hungary’s Fabian Marozsan at Roland Garros. His trip included a notable encounter with Paris Saint-Germain forward Goncalo Ramos, who played a part in knocking Liverpool out of the Champions League this season. The pair’s meeting in Paris added fuel to ongoing conversations about Liverpool’s evolving forward line.

While the players enjoy their well-earned breaks, Liverpool’s management remains busy behind the scenes. The club is close to finalizing the £29 million signing of Jeremie Frimpong from Bayer Leverkusen, with the Dutch right-back arriving in England earlier this week to complete his move. Although the transfer is yet to be officially confirmed, Frimpong has already joined the Netherlands squad for upcoming World Cup qualifiers.

Liverpool’s international players, including Gakpo, Virgil van Dijk, and Ryan Gravenberch, are preparing for crucial World Cup qualifying matches against Finland and Malta next month. These fixtures also present an opportunity for Gakpo and Frimpong to reunite on the international stage before forging their partnership at club level next season.

The Reds are not stopping with Frimpong. Talks are ongoing with Bayer Leverkusen over a potential club-record deal for midfielder Florian Wirtz, who has been earmarked as a key target by both Arne Slot and CEO Michael Edwards. Meanwhile, Liverpool are also expressing interest in Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez to bolster their defensive options.

Liverpool’s summer transfer plans extend to their attacking department. With Darwin Nunez likely to be sold, the Reds are actively pursuing reinforcements up front. Even if the club secures Wirtz’s signature, the search for a new centre-forward is expected to continue as Liverpool seek to enhance goal-scoring options and squad depth.

Meanwhile, speculation continues around the futures of Luis Diaz, Diogo Jota, and Federico Chiesa, all of whom have been linked with moves away from Anfield. The club’s transfer strategy appears focused on refreshing the squad while retaining a core of experienced and emerging talent.

The securing of Mohamed Salah’s future earlier in April was a significant boost for Liverpool, ensuring one of their star forwards remains committed amidst a period of uncertainty and change. Despite interest from Bayern Munich in Gakpo, Liverpool remain confident in his place within the squad.

The Dutchman’s ability to perform consistently and adapt to different tactical setups under Slot gives Liverpool confidence as they navigate this summer’s transfer window. While the club evaluates potential attacking reshuffles, Gakpo’s future at Anfield looks secure for the time being.

Liverpool supporters can expect a busy off-season filled with transfer activity and squad reorganization. With new signings on the horizon and some established players potentially moving on, the Reds’ summer business will be crucial to their ambitions of returning to the Premier League summit and competing strongly in Europe.

As the transfer saga unfolds, all eyes will remain on Liverpool’s official announcements and how the squad shapes up ahead of the 2025/26 season. With a blend of experience and youthful talent, Liverpool aim to build a team capable of challenging for multiple trophies once again.