Full Breakdown
Manchester City and Tottenham Join Transfer Race for Liverpool Forward Cody Gakpo
8/25/2026, 12:16:43 AM
Core Event – Gakpo’s Transfer Saga Intensifies
Manchester City have signaled interest in Liverpool’s Dutch forward Cody Gakpo, while Tottenham Hotspur continue to pursue the 27-year-old. Liverpool have said they will consider a sale only if a highly attractive fee is offered and a suitable attacking replacement is secured before the Premier League deadline.
Background & Context
Gakpo arrived from PSV Eindhoven in December 2022 for an initial £37 million, potentially rising to £44 million. He has made 181 appearances, scoring 51 goals and providing 23 assists, including 18 league goals in Liverpool’s 2024-25 title-winning campaign. After a strong start to the 2025-26 season, his league tally fell to three goals by year-end, though he added three goals in four matches at the summer World Cup. He opened the 2026-27 season with a goal in Liverpool’s 2-2 draw with Newcastle United.
Timeline
- August 23, 2026 – Gakpo scored the equaliser in Liverpool’s 2-2 draw with Newcastle United.
- August 24, 2026 – Dutch outlet Soccer News NL reported Manchester City’s interest and noted the club’s financial position could be bolstered by upcoming player sales.
- September 1, 2026 – Premier League transfer window closes at 23:00.
Data & Statistics
- Contract: Until 2030.
- Performance: 51 goals, 23 assists; 18 league goals in 2024-25.
- Market valuation: Over £75 million, according to analysts.
- Tottenham offer: Initial bid of around £60 million was rejected.
- Potential replacements for Liverpool: Bradley Barcola (PSG) and Yankuba Minteh (Brighton).
Official Statements & Responses
Liverpool maintain they will not sell Gakpo without a “highly attractive” fee and a quality replacement. Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi has urged his club to improve its offer after the initial bid was turned down. Manchester City’s interest has been communicated to Gakpo’s representatives, though no formal club-to-club approach has been confirmed.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Reports differ on the stage of City’s outreach—some say direct contact with Gakpo’s camp, others claim no club-to-club contact. Tottenham’s next bid is also unclear; one source mentions a planned “new official offer,” while another suggests the club may look at alternatives such as Mykhaylo Mudryk. No finalized agreement exists as of the deadline.
Why It Matters / Impact
The decision will shape Liverpool’s attacking options ahead of the season. For Manchester City, signing Gakpo would add depth behind Erling Haaland. Tottenham’s pursuit highlights their need for a proven forward after a slow start. The competing interests of two Premier League clubs increase pressure on Liverpool’s transfer strategy as the September 1 deadline approaches.
