Last 48 hours: Liverpool and Klopp now eyeing move for "terrifying" left-footed star after Gakpo

Liverpool are reportedly eyeing a move for Villarreal forward Samuel Chukwueze.

The Reds appear to be closing in on their first signing of 2023 with a move for PSV forward Cody Gakpo. The Netherlands star was heavily linked with a switch to Manchester United, however, Liverpool are the ones who have reached an agreement.

A fee is expected to be between €40m-€50m in what will be a record sale for PSV. The 23-year-old was present on Merseyside on Wednesday for the main part of his medical, and it looks as if the club are weighing up another possible transfer.

According to one Spanish outlet, Jurgen Klopp’s side have joined the race for Chukwueze, who could become one of the biggest sales in the history of Villarreal.

Gakpo’s arrival will see Klopp’s senior attacking ranks increase to six senior options, so a move for Chukwueze, called a ‘terrifying’ direct player and potential ‘superstar in the making’ by members of the media in recent seasons, may not be a wise one at this stage.

Yes, he could be a future star, however, Liverpool could do with bolstering other areas of the pitch after signing Gakpo, with midfield a prime example.

Jude Bellingham seems to be a key target, so going all in on the Borussia Dortmund central midfielder following Gakpo’s arrival could be a smarter call than pursuing Chukwueze.