Manchester City have reportedly placed the Dutch forward Cody Gakpo on their transfer radar, despite the player currently being linked with a move to Tottenham Hotspur from Liverpool. The English champions are actively scouting ways to bolster their attacking options, especially after confirming that Brazilian winger Savinho – and potentially fellow forward Omar Marmoush – are set to depart for the North London club.
While no formal negotiations have taken place between City and Liverpool regarding Gakpo, the Merseyside side’s contract situation makes any potential deal a long‑term proposition; the Dutchman is tied to Anfield until 2030. At present Liverpool appear unwilling to part with their 27‑year‑old striker.
Club officials have indicated that they would only consider a sale if they could secure the services of two quality wide attackers to replace his contributions. Gakpo’s recent form has only reinforced Liverpool’s desire to keep him, as he started the Premier League season’s opening fixture against Newcastle United and found the back of the net, showcasing the kind of versatility and goal‑scoring instinct that has made him a coveted asset across Europe.
City’s broader transfer strategy this summer reflects a clear intention to refresh their forward line. In addition to the rumored interest in Gakpo, the club have been linked with several high‑profile targets from Ligue 1’s Paris Saint‑Germain, namely Bradley Barcola and Ibrahim Mbaye.
Both players are considered to possess the pace and technical ability that Pep Guardiola’s side values in its attacking unit. Meanwhile, Manchester City have also been involved in a protracted pursuit of Brighton’s promising winger Yankuba Minteh, with multiple offers reportedly turned down by the Seagulls. The most concrete development from City’s side so far has been the verbal agreement reached with Brazilian club Palmeiras for the signing of 22‑year‑old winger Allan.
The deal, which could rise to £34 million, comprises a fixed fee of £32 million plus £2 million in performance‑related add‑ons. Both parties have confirmed the agreement in principle, though the necessary paperwork and medical examinations are still pending.
Allan is expected to fill the void left by Savinho, who is on the verge of a high‑value transfer to Tottenham that could fetch up to £85 million. The potential departure of Savinho and the possible arrival of Marmoush have added another layer of complexity to City’s recruitment plans.
Sky Sports News reported last week that talks over Marmoush’s move to Manchester were “very close” to being finalised, and the Egyptian forward was even listed on the bench for City’s Premier League opener against Bournemouth, albeit without making an appearance. Should Marmoush join, he would provide additional depth on the wings, complementing the likes of Phil Foden, Jack Grealish and the newly arrived Allan. If the Gakpo saga were to progress, City would need to navigate Liverpool’s reluctance to sell.
The Reds have made it clear that any deal would likely require the acquisition of two wide forwards to offset the loss of their star striker. This stipulation could see City exploring a multi‑player swap or offering a package that includes cash plus one or more promising attackers. Such a scenario would not be unprecedented in the modern transfer market, where clubs often bundle players to meet the selling side’s strategic needs.
Beyond the immediate transfer chatter, the broader context of City’s summer activity reflects a shift towards younger, high‑potential talent with resale value. The club’s interest in players like Barcola, Mbaye and Minteh underscores a desire to inject fresh energy while maintaining financial prudence.
At the same time, the willingness to invest significant sums – as evidenced by the potential £85 million outlay for Savinho – demonstrates that the owners remain prepared to spend where they see genuine value. In summary, Manchester City’s interest in Cody Gakpo adds another intriguing subplot to an already busy transfer window. While Liverpool’s contract situation and demand for replacement wingers present obstacles, the Dutchman’s proven Premier League pedigree makes him an attractive option for a team seeking to sustain its domestic dominance and European ambitions. Whether City will ultimately secure Gakpo, or instead focus on integrating Allan, Marmoush and other targets, remains to be seen, but the club’s activity suggests a clear intent to refresh its attacking arsenal ahead of the upcoming season.