RismadarVoice Reporters, August 30, 2026
Tottenham Hotspur have suffered a major setback in their attempt to sign Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo, with reports indicating that the Netherlands international has decided to join Premier League rivals Manchester City.
Gakpo had been a key target for Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi, who wanted the Liverpool attacker to strengthen his squad after a record-breaking summer transfer window.
Spurs have already spent about £382 million on eight new signings this summer, including major additions such as Sandro Tonali, Mateus Fernandes, Omar Marmoush and Savio.
However, the club’s pursuit of Gakpo became complicated after Manchester City entered the race for the 27-year-old forward.
According to reports from The Athletic, Gakpo has now chosen a move to Manchester City, with both clubs working towards reaching a final agreement.
Liverpool are reportedly seeking a transfer fee of around £85 million for the player after previously indicating they would only consider selling him if a replacement was secured.
The Reds recently agreed a deal to sign Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola, opening the possibility of Gakpo’s departure.
Gakpo has started Liverpool’s opening Premier League matches this season, scoring against Newcastle United and providing an assist in the club’s 2-2 draw with Nottingham Forest.
Since joining Liverpool from PSV Eindhoven in January 2023, the Dutch forward has recorded 51 goals in 182 appearances across all competitions.
The potential move represents another transfer challenge for Tottenham, who are looking to rebuild their attacking options after losing their opening two Premier League matches of the season.
De Zerbi had identified Gakpo as a key player who could add pace, creativity and versatility to Tottenham’s attack, but the club may now have to turn their attention to alternative targets before the transfer window closes.
