Alexander Isak could block Man City signing Cody Gakpo
Alexander Isak's chequered recent injury history is persuading Liverpool to do all they can to retain Cody Gakpo's services, sources have told Football Insider.
Man City have opened talks with Gakpo's camp over a shock move to the Etihad ahead of Tuesday's transfer deadline.
The Dutchman is reportedly keen to pursue a switch across the north west after coming in for criticism at Liverpool last season.
He has started this campaign in strong form for the Reds, however, with a goal and an assist each in their first two league matches.
As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider's Transfer Insider podcast, Liverpool chiefs are keen to keep hold of Gakpo as they are concerned about their lack of forward depth if he leaves.
Hugo Ekitike's long-term injury means that Gakpo is Andoni Iraola's current back-up striker to Isak, who has dealt with various fitness issues of his own since moving to Anfield.
Liverpool want to keep Cody Gakpo amid squad depth concerns
City have agreed personal terms with the 27-year-old's representatives and are ready to submit an £85million package to land his services.
Liverpool do not want to let him go before the deadline passes, though, even with Bradley Barcola officially signed to bolster Iraola's attacking depth.
Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: "I don't think Liverpool can afford to let Cody Gakpo go right now because he's such a versatile player for them as well, he's probably the back-up striker if anything happens to Alexander Isak because of Hugo Ekitike's injury, and he has started the season well.
"So it would take a huge fee, I think, for Liverpool to even consider letting Gakpo go. And do they really want to let one of their players leave to join one of their Premier League rivals? I don't think it's something they would want to do right now."
Liverpool make new Yankuba Minteh transfer plan after rejected bids
Liverpool have seen two separate offers to sign Brighton star Minteh rejected in the last month, with the most recent bid believed to be worth around £60m.
The 22-year-old remains a top target for the Reds even though they will not be able to complete a deal in this window.
Sources have exclusively revealed to Football Insider that Liverpool plan to return with a new offer for Minteh in January instead, regardless of what happens with Gakpo.