Liverpool Star Reveals Bayern Munich Made Direct Approach Before Pursuing Luis Diaz

Cody Gakpo has disclosed that Bayern Munich expressed interest in acquiring his services during the summer transfer window, before they ultimately secured Luis Díaz's signature.

Instead, Gakpo opted to pen a fresh Liverpool deal, prolonging his tenure until 2030 by adding an additional two years to his existing contract that was set to expire in 2028. This commitment binds the Dutch forward to Liverpool potentially until just past his 31st birthday and represented a considerable vote of confidence during the same summer that saw three attacking players arrive for substantial fees and teenage prodigy Rio Ngumoha break through from the youth setup.

However, Gakpo's journey at Anfield hasn't always been seamless. He found it challenging to secure consistent starting positions during Jürgen Klopp's concluding campaign in 2023–24, and it was perhaps only Arne Slot's reluctance to rely on Darwin Núñez and readiness to deploy Luis Díaz as a central striker that provided Gakpo with an expanded opportunity.

The 26-year-old has now confirmed that Bayern were indeed monitoring his situation at some stage during the earlier part of summer, acknowledging a reporter's inquiry while representing his national team.

"From my understanding, they did approach," Gakpo disclosed, adding with a grin, "…but they ultimately secured Luis Díaz instead."

Díaz's exit reduced the competition for positions, with Gakpo featuring from the start in all three Premier League matches thus far. However, Florian Wirtz possesses the versatility to operate in wide areas, while Hugo Ekitiké, Liverpool's first-choice striker this campaign, might find himself repositioned now that Alexander Isak has joined the squad.

Despite Isak's confirmation as a Liverpool player not arriving until the transfer window's closing day, there was anticipation surrounding the move, and Gakpo appeared content enough with the circumstances to pledge his future to the Reds following extensive deliberations.

"I believe it required about a year. Perhaps slightly more or less, but it's simply a lengthy procedure," he acknowledged.

"I had already informed the club of my contentment and that my family feels settled in England. We consider it home, and I believe that's extremely significant, alongside the football aspect, naturally."