Andoni Iraola has already gotten started at Liverpool with the impending arrival of Victor Munoz. News broke on Wednesday night that the Reds had nudged ahead of Newcastle United in the race for the Spain international after agreeing to pay the reported €40million (£34.6million) release clause in his Osasuna contract.
The winger, 22, has already undergone his medical while on World Cup 2026 duty and is expected to sign a six-year contract ahead of a move to Anfield. Iraola's appointment as Liverpool's head coach was only announced earlier this month, and the Spaniard is already set to welcome his compatriot.
It's not all roses and sunshine for the 43-year-old, given that the acquisition of Munoz could have repercussions for the future of Cody Gakpo. The Dutchman has performed admirably during his three-and-a-half-year stint in Merseyside but endured a disappointing 2025/26 season with just seven league goals.
Bar his most recent campaign, Gakpo had always shared left-wing duties with Luis Diaz. However, the Colombian's departure last year and the Reds' decision not to replace him to provide a pathway for Rio Ngumoha meant the 27-year-old became Arne Slot's undisputed No. 1 in the position.
It's a role Gakpo severely struggled with as his lacklustre performances left fans frustrated, and the absence of Diaz's speed and directness became even more glaring. A year hasn't even passed since the Netherlands star inked a new contract, but Munoz's signing and his ability to play on both flanks and up top could leave Gakpo seeking pastures new.
Liverpool can certainly command a hefty fee for Gakpo, who only turned 27 last month and had been a productive player for the Reds up until this season. The rise of Ngumoha could also play a part in the Dutchman's situation, as the 17-year-old enjoyed a stunning breakout campaign, resulting in him making his England debut.
The winger's ceiling looks limitless, with his potential being noticed by Bayern Munich, who made him a transfer target before Liverpool rubbished any chances of the youngster departing.
The arrival of Munoz, who is almost five years older than Ngumoha, will provide the teenager with adequate competition, but doesn't hold a status big enough to stunt the development of the Reds star.
The forwards are similar in their attributes, with both possessing electric pace and a desire to get at their full-backs that you don't see as much in today's football. For Iraola and his aggressive and high-pressing style of play, Munoz certainly fits the bill more than Gakpo, but whether he starts the season as the Reds' first-choice left-winger remains to be seen.
