REUTERS/Daniel Becerril
Tottenham Hotspur have held positive talks to sign Liverpool star Cody Gakpo, after their move for AFC Bournemouth's Eli Junior Kroupi collapsed.
After making two big-money additions in midfield, namely Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes, Tottenham are now looking to improve their attack, and Gakpo has emerged as a target, after spending three-and-a-half seasons at Anfield.
Upon arriving on Merseyside, the Dutchman was hailed by former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp, who said: "He is good on the ball, you can see in his finishing he is a sensational finisher. His shooting from distance [is] outstanding, but in the games he is a bit in a rush and now in the moment not in the right position. It is an extreme strength of his and he has a long-term contract here and everybody will see that."
Since then, the left-winger, who can also be deployed as a striker, has gone on to amass 50 goals and 23 assists in 180 games for the Reds, during which time he has established himself as an important player at international level.
The 27-year-old has 24 goals to his name in 54 appearances for the Netherlands, and he recently picked up four goal involvements in as many matches at the World Cup.
However, with Liverpool signing Victor Munoz earlier this summer, the forward could find his game time more limited next season, and Spurs have now emerged as potential suitors.
Tottenham hold positive talks to sign Cody Gakpo
Cody-Gakpo-Netherlands
According to a report from TEAMtalk, Tottenham have now held positive talks with Gakpo's agent, with the Liverpool star being targeted as an alternative to Kroupi, who has suffered a foot injury. Crucially, he is now open to a move to north London.
Spurs have also contacted Liverpool regarding a potential deal, but Andoni Iraola's side aren't prepared to cash-in. As such, unless their stance changes, Spurs may have to move on to alternative targets.
Barcelona forward Ferran Torres is an option, after scoring the winning goal for Spain in the World Cup final. Last season, the Barca star scored 16 goals in La Liga, playing a major role in his side winning the title.
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Which forward should Tottenham sign?
Cody Gakpo
Ferran Torres
As their search for new forwards continues, Tottenham have also made contact regarding a deal for Nottingham Forest star Igor Jesus.