The 22-year-old PSV Eindhoven winger has come to the fore this season, scoring 18 times and registering 15 assists in all competitions.
His performances have piqued the interest of several clubs ahead of the summer and there are suggestions that Arsenal and Liverpool are interested in taking him to the Premier League.
While many feel Gakpo should spend one more season in the Netherlands to continue his development, Van der Vaart insisted that if a club offer big money for him, PSV should decide to sell him in the summer.
The Dutchman is certain that the winger is ready for the next big move in his career and does not feel he is going to take much time adapting to a new country and league.
Van der Vaart said on Studio Voetbal: “Normally, I would say he should stay as long as possible but he is already the engine at PSV.
“If there is a nice challenge, he should go.
“If someone wants to pay €40m, he should be sold immediately.
“If a good club come with a nice offer, I would tie a knot around him.
“He is ready and is a boy who can adapt quickly.”
Gakpo has four years left on his contract and PSV are likely to demand big money for him in the summer.
