Cody Gakpo Transfer Saga: Liverpool, Spurs, and Manchester City Battle

Cody Gakpo has become the latest flashpoint in a late-summer tug of war between two Premier League heavyweights – with Liverpool determined not to be bullied by the clock.

Transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano revealed that Manchester City have now stepped directly into the chase, holding a face-to-face meeting with the Liverpool forward’s representatives as they explore a move before the window shuts.

City’s interest is serious. Romano said the champions have already started discussing contract figures with Gakpo’s camp, signalling their intention to go head-to-head with Tottenham for the Dutchman.

Spurs, though, got there first.

According to Romano, Tottenham have had a verbal agreement in place with Gakpo on personal terms since July. The framework of a contract is ready on their side – salary, conditions, the lot – and has been for weeks. It does not mean Gakpo is pushing to leave Anfield; Romano stressed the player is “very happy” at Liverpool. But if Liverpool and Spurs were to find common ground on a fee, the personal side would not be a problem.

Now City have crashed the party. The champions have met the agents, opened talks over numbers and made it clear they are prepared to compete with Spurs for the deal. Two clubs with Champions League ambitions, one versatile forward, and the clock ticking.

Liverpool, though, hold the key – and they are in no mood to weaken themselves without a plan.

Romano underlined that the Reds will not approve Gakpo’s exit in the final days of the window unless they first secure two wingers. Not one. Two. That stance is shaping the entire saga.

Bradley Barcola sits at the top of Liverpool’s list. Romano described that pursuit as “still fully on”, with the Frenchman viewed as the primary target in their wide-forward rebuild. On top of Barcola, Liverpool want another winger through the door before they even think about giving the green light for Gakpo to move.

Talks are active. Romano revealed Liverpool have held discussions around two offers for Iyenoma Mudryk and remain in contact with the player’s agent. Other alternatives are also being explored as the club work through their shortlist.

So the situation is clear. Tottenham have an agreement with Gakpo on personal terms. Manchester City have entered the race and opened negotiations with his camp. Both are ready to move.

But until Liverpool land Barcola and another winger, Gakpo’s future stays locked in their hands – and any late-window raid from City or Spurs will have to break through that barrier first.