Cody Gakpo’s long-term future at Liverpool remains uncertain heading into the final days of the summer transfer window.
The Dutch forward scored in the Reds’ opening-day draw with Newcastle and is under contract at Anfield until 2030. That has not stopped two Premier League rivals from circling.
UK ONLY
Tottenham Hotspur have been the club most strongly linked with Gakpo throughout the summer. Reports indicate Gakpo has an agreement on personal terms with Tottenham dating back to July, with Spurs ready to offer him the role he wants.
Manchester City then entered the picture. City are looking to strengthen their forward line after sanctioning the departures of Savinho and Omar Marmoush to Tottenham, though no club-to-club talks with Liverpool have taken place at this stage.
Liverpool’s position has been consistent throughout. The Reds are not actively pushing Cody Gakpo toward the exit, but they would consider a major offer worth around £70m for the left winger.
Their willingness to sell also depends on bringing in replacements before the deadline, with Bradley Barcola of Paris Saint-Germain the priority target.
According to Fabrizio Romano on Give Me Sport Market Madness on YouTube, Manchester City held fresh talks with Cody Gakpo’s agents again on Friday.
The renewed contact confirms City’s interest has not cooled, even as Tottenham continue to be regarded as front-runners for the 27-year-old.
Romano has maintained that Tottenham hold an agreement with Gakpo on personal terms and are ready to give him what he wants. City, by contrast, have met with his representatives but have nothing agreed or completed with the player.
The outcome may hinge on Liverpool’s business elsewhere. Romano has said the situation depends on whether Liverpool can bring in two wingers; if they do, Gakpo would be free to move to either Tottenham or City.
Tottenham’s spending this summer adds weight to their claim on Gakpo.
Spurs have already made seven signings this summer, including an £85m deal to bring in Savinho from City, taking their outlay well past £300m.
Liverpool’s own transfer business will likely determine when, or if, Cody Gakpo departs.
Barcola remains the club’s stated priority as a potential replacement on the left. Until that deal, or an alternative, is finalised, Liverpool are unlikely to sanction a sale involving either Manchester City or Tottenham.
Want to get the latest Liverpool news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.