Dutch legend explains how Gakpo's arrival could prompt Liverpool to change their formation

Frank de Boer believes Cody Gakpo was right to join Liverpool over Manchester United and believes his arrival could open up some new tactical possibilities for Jurgen Klopp's side.

Liverpool announced on Wednesday night that they had signed Gakpo from PSV Eindhoven, with the forward set to officially complete his move when the transfer window opens on January 1.

Gakpo is believed to have signed a five-and-a-half-year deal with Liverpool, who have reportedly paid an initial £37m fee for the player which could rise to £45m with add-ons.

United were also linked with a move for Gakpo in January, with manager Erik ten Hag interested in signing his compatriot.

Former Netherlands international De Boer believes Gakpo has made the right decision to move to Anfield instead.

"I think it's important for him, he's better when he starts on the left and comes inside. I think Liverpool plays a little bit like that, I remember [Luis] Diaz playing there, who is also by the way an exceptional talent," De Boer told talkSPORT.

"So when he is fit he will have to fight for that spot. In the meanwhile, he [Gakpo] can grow in that role, I think Liverpool needs a player like that on that side at the moment.

"I think for me, this is the best choice he could have made at this moment."

De Boer: Gakpo can play as a No 9

De Boer went on to praise Gakpo's versatility, believing he can play in both a wider role in attack and as part of a front two for Liverpool.

Jurgen Klopp's side typically line up in a 4-3-3 formation, but have also utilised 4-4-2 this campaign – notably against Rangers in the Champions League.

"I think he can play as a No 9, but with two strikers. Not a typical No 9 like [Robert] Lewandowski, I don't think he's that kind of type," added De Boer.

"But if you play with two up top, then he can play as an attacking No 10, he can play that role really well, he did it of course at the World Cup where he showed his class.

"With two strikers he can be very efficient, he knows where to run, he knows to go behind the defenders and he has the speed. He will also get a little bit quicker and more physical, that will come in the years of playing in the Premier League, he will adapt quickly.

"I think he will only get better, and from my point of view, he made the right choice."