Manchester City has reached out to the people representing Cody Gakpo, a winger for Liverpool. This development, first reported by Mounir Boualin of SoccerNews.nl, complicates what seemed to be a simple negotiation between Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur.
Tottenham had been actively trying to sign the 27-year-old Dutch player to strengthen their attack under Roberto De Zerbi. Spurs had reportedly agreed to personal terms with Gakpo, promising him a starting position in their lineup. However, Liverpool rejected Tottenham’s initial offer of £60 million, holding out for closer to £70 million. Tottenham is now preparing a revised offer, but with the transfer window nearing its end, time is becoming a factor.
City’s unexpected move is directly linked to their own transfer dealings with Tottenham. As Spurs are on the verge of signing attacking players from City’s roster, such as Savinho and Omar Marmoush, the Premier League champions are looking to add depth to their own attacking options before the transfer window closes.
Liverpool does not appear to be in a hurry to sell Gakpo, especially given his strong start to the Premier League season with his goal-scoring form. However, if the reported interest in other players materializes and a bidding war for Gakpo pushes his price up to their £70 million asking fee, the Reds might be willing to consider a deal.
