Cody Gakpo’s Potential Move from Liverpool to Manchester City

Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo, 27, has indicated a preference for a move to Manchester City and is reportedly in negotiations to finalize the transfer. He rejected a reported offer from Tottenham Hotspur and is now focusing on completing a deal with the Etihad. The Athletic noted on August 24 that City, after losing forwards Savinho and Omar Marmoush to Tottenham, expressed interest in signing Gakpo. Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola has said he “cannot guarantee anything” about the striker’s future, underscoring the uncertainty surrounding the deal.

New York Times

Gakpo joined Liverpool from PSV Eindhoven in December 2022 for an initial £37 million, potentially rising to £44 million with add-ons. He signed a new five-year contract with Liverpool in August 2025 after contributing 18 goals and seven assists in 49 league appearances during the club’s 2024-25 Premier League title-winning season. Meanwhile, City has already agreed to a €40 million (£34.3 million) acquisition of winger Allan Elias from Palmeiras and has been active in the market following the departures of Savinho and Marmoush.

New York Times

Across his Liverpool tenure, Gakpo has amassed 50 goals and 23 assists in 180 appearances. After a strong start to the 2025-26 season, his league output fell to three goals since the turn of the year, though he added three goals in four World Cup matches before the Netherlands exited in the last-32 on penalties. Personal hardship also affected him; he made himself available for selection shortly after his partner, Noa, disclosed a pregnancy loss.

New York Times

City’s interest reflects a strategic need for a versatile forward who can operate centrally or on the wing, offering a physical presence and Premier League experience as a possible alternative to Erling Haaland. Analysts note that while the transfer fee is expected to be high, City’s recent sales have bolstered its spending capacity this summer. The club’s willingness to consider lower-profile strikers—evidenced by past interest in Kyogo Furuhashi—suggests Gakpo’s profile aligns with City’s broader recruitment philosophy.

New York Times

Andoni Iraola’s comment that he cannot guarantee Gakpo’s future signals Liverpool’s openness to a departure while retaining negotiating leverage. The Athletic’s report of City’s August 24 interest provides the latest public indication of the club’s intent, framing the potential transfer as a significant development in both clubs’ summer strategies.

New York Times