‘£70m’: Club legend urges his side to increase their asking price for 23-year-old ace after Liverpool interest

Add as preferred source on Google

Dutch legend Willy van de Kerkhof has urged his former side PSV Eindhoven to increase their asking price for star player Cody Gakpo.

Speaking with Voetbal Primeur in an interview, the previous Netherlands international, who amassed 536 appearances for the Eredivisie side, has claimed he would not sell the 23-year-old for less than £70m.

This follows reports that PSV will demand just £45m to allow the attacker to leave the club.

“As a football player you need a bit of luck in your career,” Van der Kerkhfof said.

“Gakpo plays well at the World Cup. That is good for him, but also good for PSV. To be very honest; if he plays a good World Cup, and he [is] doing that, then I think he will be gone by Christmas.

“I wouldn’t sell him for less than 80 million euros (£70 million).”

According to Voetbal International journalist Marco Timmer, the Reds are ready to negotiate with PSV over a proposed move for the player, after the World Cup has concluded.

Van der Kerkhfof urges PSV to increase Gakpo’s asking price

Gakpo has been in incredible form for his club this season, and he is now replicating this on the biggest stage at the World Cup.

In 14 Eredivisie appearances this term, the winger has bagged nine goals and 12 assists. Whilst playing for the Netherlands out in Qatar, the 23-year-old has scored two-in-two, helping his side to the top of the group.

Having been in such emphatic form, interest in the Dutchman has grown and grown. As per journalist Hans Kraay, Liverpool remain extremely keen on signing Gakpo. He told ESPN that Pep Lijnders is a big fan of the forward, and that he is pushing for a transfer next year.

However, with PSV’s reported £45m price-tag, a whole host of other clubs from across Europe are expected to enter the mix. Manchester United have long been linked with a move for the youngster, having pulled-out last minute in the summer after nearly agreeing a deal.

Therefore, Van der Kerkhfof is certainly right to urge his former club to increase his asking price. With such talent on display, Gakpo will be one of the most desired young players in world football. As a result, it is surely likely that a club would cough up the £70m to land his services.