Virgil van Dijk has admitted that Cody Gakpo came into Liverpool at a “difficult” time after interest from Manchester United was swallowed by Jurgen Klopp’s chase of him.
Gakpo was lined up as an alternative to Antony for United, should his transfer from Ajax in the summer not have materialised. The former PSV Eindhoven attacker revealed his disappointment at not being able to secure a move to Old Trafford in the weeks afterwards.
In January, United were always fixated on bringing in a central striker amid Anthony Martial’s injuries and a near-empty wallet. The three-goal World Cup hero instead swapped Eindhoven for Anfield but, unlike his PSV form, didn't get off to a blistering start.
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The 23-year-old failed to score in his first six games but now has four goals in five league outings, of which two came against United in Sunday’s 7-0 mauling by Liverpool. Van Dijk said his countryman is finally finding his feet at the club, which his goals against formerly-interested party United indicated.
"The first one, I think the whole build-up towards it was outstanding. Obviously (Gakpo) cutting in to his right foot, a quality finish,” the defender said post-match.
“Obviously it’s been a difficult time to come in any club, I think, in the winter for any player but he’s settling in very well. It’s a very difficult position to play.
“I think he will be fine for this club and I mentioned it already before but he’s a fantastic player.”
Darwin Nunez was also linked with a United move in the summer and scored a brace himself against Erik ten Hag’s side at the weekend. Van Dijk hailed the attacker, saying: “Darwin is causing chaos all the time with his speed, his passion and also with the quality.”
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