Manchester City is reportedly intensifying its efforts to sign Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo, with talks advancing rapidly as the transfer window approaches its close. However, any potential move for the Dutch international hinges on Liverpool securing a suitable replacement, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.

City, under manager Enzo Maresca, is stepping up negotiations with Gakpo’s representatives, with the player himself reportedly favouring a switch to the Etihad Stadium over a move to Tottenham Hotspur. Gakpo is understood to be the “clear favorite option” for the eight-time Premier League champions, who have the financial capacity to make a significant offer, estimated at around £70 million, following the departures of Savinho and Omar Marmoush (the latter on loan to Spurs).

Liverpool’s firm stance on Gakpo’s exit

Liverpool’s position is clear: Gakpo will only be allowed to leave if the club can bring in another top attacker. This condition remains unchanged despite the imminent £120 million arrival of Paris Saint-Germain’s Bradley Barcola, who is being brought in as a direct replacement for Mohamed Salah, not Gakpo. As Romano stated on GIVEMESPORT’s Market Madness podcast:

“So in case of exit for Cody Gakpo in these final days of the window, Liverpool are still considering the possibility to add one more winger. So Gakpo only leaves if one more winger joins. That’s always been the situation.”

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The Reds would likely need to spend upwards of £70 million themselves to adequately replace Gakpo, a figure they anticipate recouping from his sale. Key meetings are scheduled to take place following “today’s game” to decide Gakpo’s future, with the transfer deadline just days away.

Tottenham’s long-standing interest

Tottenham Hotspur has also been a long-term admirer of Gakpo, having been involved in talks since July. The North London club has already bolstered its attack this summer with the signings of Savinho and Omar Marmoush, contributing to a total spend well over £300 million. However, their ability to add another forward like Gakpo would likely depend on the exit of an existing attacker, such as Richarlison.

Gakpo’s Premier League statistics for the 2025/26 season highlight his contribution:

• 36 appearances

• 7 goals

• 5 assists

• 78.5% pass success

• 1.5 key passes per game

• 2.4 shots per game

With Manchester City described by Fabrizio Romano on X as “heavily involved” and “advancing in negotiations” for Gakpo, the coming days are set to be crucial in determining where the Dutch forward will play his football after the transfer window closes.

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