Southampton were close to signing Cody Gakpo in the summer of 2022.
At PSV, Cody Gakpo had just completed a stellar season with 25 goal contributions in the Eredivisie, positioning himself for a major summer transfer. Manchester United showed interest but refrained from making a formal offer due to Financial Fair Play concerns. This left Southampton and Leeds United in a direct competition for Gakpo’s signature.
In a surprising turn of events, Gakpo chose to remain at PSV that summer, later moving to Liverpool in January. The anticipation at Southampton for his arrival was immense, with fans hoping he would be the marquee signing to make a significant impact. Unfortunately, without Gakpo, Southampton struggled offensively, managing only 36 goals in 38 league games.
In a recent ESPN documentary series on the Dutch squad, Gakpo revealed the unusual reason behind his decision not to join Southampton. He explained that he was torn between three options: transferring to Southampton, moving to Leeds United, or staying at PSV. Seeking divine guidance, he prayed for wisdom and decided to let his performance in a specific match determine his choice. If he scored once, he would go to Southampton; twice, he would join Leeds; and thrice, he would remain at PSV.
During PSV’s game against Volendam on August 31, 2022, Gakpo scored a hat-trick, leading him to stay at PSV. His impressive form continued with 21 goal contributions in just 14 league games and a standout performance at the winter World Cup in Qatar, prompting Liverpool to sign him.
While Gakpo has faced challenges at Liverpool, he would have significantly bolstered Southampton’s attack during a season in which they finished last in the league. Instead, fate intervened, and he moved to Anfield just four months later, leaving Southampton to wonder what might have been.