Andoni Iraola has new Cody Gakpo plan after Liverpool transfer collapse

Andoni Iraola is planning to use Cody Gakpo as a key part of his Liverpool side for the upcoming season, sources have told Football Insider.

The 27-year-old was heavily linked with a move away from Anfield throughout the summer, but ultimately remained after a late move to Man City broke down.

Despite Man City offering a fee of around £80million for the Netherlands international, Liverpool have always been reluctant to lose him given their lack of depth up front.

As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider's Transfer Insider podcast, Iraola had no plans to lose Gakpo and still views him as a key part of his starting XI.

The forward's versatility is seen as a key asset, as he has proved he can cover both wings as well as play through the middle, which will be important to help his side compete.

Liverpool's decision to reject the big-money offer from Man City so late in the transfer window has been seen as a statement of intent by Iraola, who is hoping for a successful season.

Why did Liverpool block Cody Gakpo's exit?

Football Insider revealed on 31 August that Liverpool had no plans to sell Gakpo late in the transfer window given concerns about their lack of depth in attacking areas.

Hugo Ekitike's long-term injury, combined with Alexander Isak's patchy record and a lack of depth in wide areas, has reaffirmed Gakpo's importance to the squad.

As a result, Iraola has a clear plan for the Netherlands international to play a key role in any success they have in the upcoming season.

Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: "Gakpo will be a key player for Liverpool this season, definitely.

"He's already shown that, he got a goal against Newcastle on the opening weekend and then picked up a good assist against Nottingham Forest as well.

"He's such a versatile player for Liverpool, and I think that's the key, Liverpool didn't really want to lose that.

"They obviously considered Man City's offer, they were willing to pay top dollar for Cody Gakpo, but in the end Liverpool decided to keep him.

"That just shows that Andoni Iraola did not want to lose the Dutchman, because he knows that he will play a key role for his side this season in any succecss they do have."

How did Gakpo feel about leaving Liverpool?

Despite Liverpool's plans to keep hold of Gakpo, the constant speculation about his future is bound to have impacted the player, particularly with big money on the table.

Man City ultimately came forward with the most significant offer, but he was also subject to interest from Tottenham and other European clubs during the transfer window.

However, former Everton CEO Keith Wyness told Football Insider that Gakpo remains fully committed to Liverpool despite missing out on a late move away.

The Netherlands international is content to remain at Anfield and is not expected to cause any issues for Iraola behind the scenes.

Wyness believes that Gakpo will remain a key part of Iraola's plans, but suggested that it is not out of the question that he could potentially get his move in January.