Spurs Delay Cody Gakpo Bid While Monitoring Liverpool’s Transfer Pursuit of PSG Duo.
Tottenham Hotspur are adopting a strategic waiting game as they prepare to formalize their pursuit of Liverpool attacker Cody Gakpo, according to Sky Sports reporter Michael Bridge as shared by Spurs Global on X.
The North London club are closely monitoring developments at Anfield, where Liverpool are actively working to recruit Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola and potentially his team-mate Ibrahim Mbaye. Spurs intend to hold off on tabling an official bid for Gakpo until Liverpool secure their preferred attacking replacements, ensuring their Premier League rivals are willing to sanction the Dutchman’s departure.
The Liverpool Transfer Domino Effect
Liverpool’s willingness to sell Gakpo hinges directly on their ability to finalize incoming transfers from Paris Saint-Germain. With PSG star Bradley Barcola identified as a primary target alongside potential interest in 18-year-old talent Ibrahim Mbaye, Liverpool are working to reshape their wide attacking options. Tottenham sporting director Johan Lange and head coach Roberto De Zerbi recognize that launching a premature bid before Liverpool complete these acquisitions could stall negotiations. Consequently, Spurs are remaining patient in the background before stepping forward with an official offer.
[🥇] Spurs are waiting for Liverpool to sign Bradley Barcola & potentially Ibrahim Mbaye before they bid for Cody Gakpo
If Tottenham can’t get him, they’re believed to be ready to pursue other targets with interest in the likes of Pedro Neto.
Gakpo in the No9 role is NOT… pic.twitter.com/FPO4AjZvM3
— Spurs Global (@spurssglobal) August 19, 2026
Crucially, deploying Cody Gakpo in the number 9 role as a central striker is not Tottenham’s primary strategy. Spurs want to sign Gakpo alongside Manchester City winger Savinho and an additional dedicated centre-forward to construct a complete three-pronged attacking squad. Rather than forcing Gakpo into a sole central striker role, De Zerbi envisions utilizing him in his natural wide position or as a fluid attacker while bringing in distinct additions across the entire front line.
If Tottenham cannot complete a deal for Gakpo, they are prepared to shift their attention toward alternative options. Spurs maintain a strong interest in Chelsea winger Pedro Neto as a primary alternative target to strengthen their attack if negotiations for Gakpo collapse. With the transfer deadline fast approaching, Tottenham hierarchy remain poised to react quickly as soon as Liverpool’s incoming transfers progress.