Cody Gakpo Declines Two Premier League Offers Due to Referee’s Decision

Prior to Cody Gakpo’s £37 million transfer to Liverpool from PSV Eindhoven, the striker considered offers from Southampton and Leeds in an unconventional manner.

Gakpo, currently preparing with the Netherlands squad for Euro 2024, recounted this story to journalists, including ESPN’s Tom Hamilton, before joining the team.

Hamilton inquired about the offers Gakpo received near the end of the 2022 summer transfer window. PSV was willing to sell their captain, and both Southampton and Leeds presented bids around £25 million.

On August 31, PSV played FC Volendam in the Eredivisie, just a day before the transfer deadline. Gakpo recalled his unique method of deciding his future.

“The entire month was hectic, with many thoughts running through my mind. It was hard to stay fully focused,” Gakpo shared.

“In the end, I left it in God’s hands. I asked for a sign: one goal would mean Southampton, two for Leeds, and three to stay at PSV.”

Gakpo scored twice, and his third goal was contentious, as it deflected off Volendam captain Damon Mirani. The decision on whether it was an own goal or Gakpo’s goal was crucial.

“After scoring twice, the third goal was uncertain, and I got subbed off. I sat next to Jordan Teze, a close friend, and he knew my plan. He remarked that it was now up to God and the officials.”

Ultimately, the goal was awarded to Gakpo, providing the clear sign he sought. Consequently, he declined moves to Southampton and Leeds, opting to remain at PSV.

Gakpo had previously seen a potential move to Manchester United fall through due to Financial Fair Play constraints, as reported by ESPN NL. Now, he rejected the Premier League offers as well.

However, by the end of 2022, Liverpool secured his transfer from PSV. Without the Eredivisie’s Dubious Goals Panel’s decision, Gakpo’s path might have been very different.