Liverpool regard Gakpo as a reliable, versatile Premier League forward, a status he’s underscored with a goal and an assist across their first two matches this season.
Even so, the understanding all summer has been that if they secure the attacking additions they want, they wouldn’t block Gakpo’s exit should a strong offer arrive.
With talks between Liverpool and Manchester City happening so late in the window, the Anfield hierarchy will assess the situation carefully before approving any move.
Liverpool are also targeting another winger before the deadline.
With Victor Muñoz arriving, Rio Ngumoha breaking through, and Barcola close to joining from PSG, Gakpo recognizes he may no longer be first choice, so a transfer wouldn’t be a shock.
From a financial perspective, agreeing a fee around £85m would be an excellent outcome for Liverpool, given they paid £35m to sign Gakpo from PSV Eindhoven after the 2022 World Cup.
However, with Hugo Ekitike sidelined long term by a ruptured Achilles and Isak’s ongoing injury issues, allowing Gakpo to depart would carry significant risk.