Manchester City have signalled a clear interest in acquiring Cody Gakpo, the Dutch forward who is currently listed as a potential transfer target for Tottenham Hotspur but remains under contract with Liverpool until 2030. The English champions are actively exploring ways to bolster their attacking options, especially as they anticipate the arrival of Savinho from Brazil and possibly Omar Marmoush, who is also expected to move to Tottenham in the near future.
While no formal negotiations between the two clubs have been reported at this stage, the rumor mill is buzzing with speculation about a possible City bid for Gakpo. Liverpool, however, appear reluctant to part with the 27‑year‑old striker. The Merseyside side have indicated that they would only consider letting the player leave if they could secure the services of two quality wide forwards to replace him. This stance reflects the club’s broader strategy of maintaining depth across the front line, particularly after Gakpo’s impressive start to the Premier League season, where he not only started the opening match against Newcastle United but also found the back of the net, showcasing his ability to contribute both in terms of work rate and goal scoring.
The interest from Manchester City comes amid a busy transfer window for the club. In recent weeks they have been linked with a number of high‑profile targets from across Europe.
Notably, they have been pursuing two promising youngsters from Paris Saint‑Germain – Bradley Barcola and Ibrahim Mbaye – while also having multiple offers turned down for Brighton’s winger Yankuba Minteh. These pursuits illustrate City’s intent to refresh their squad with a blend of proven talent and emerging prospects.
In addition to the Gakpo speculation, City have already moved forward on a deal for Brazilian winger Allan, who currently plays for Palmeiras. According to Sky Sports News, the clubs have reached a verbal agreement on a transfer fee that could rise to £34 million, comprising a fixed £32 million plus £2 million in performance‑related add‑ons. The paperwork has not yet been exchanged, but once the clubs are satisfied with the terms, Allan will be granted permission to travel for his medical examination. This signing is expected to serve as a direct replacement for Savinho, who is set to join Tottenham in a deal reported to be worth as much as £85 million.
Savinho’s medical was completed last week, confirming the move. The potential acquisition of Gakpo would further enhance City’s attacking depth. With the club already securing a new winger in Allan and looking to add another in Marmoush – a deal that Sky Sports reported as being very close to completion – the addition of a versatile forward like Gakpo would give Pep Guardiola a wealth of tactical options. Gakpo’s ability to operate across the front line, his aerial presence, and his knack for scoring crucial goals would complement the existing roster of Erling Haaland, Phil Foden, and Jack Grealish, providing a robust contingency plan for injuries or rotation.
While the transfer market remains fluid, City’s strategy appears to be focused on both immediate reinforcement and long‑term planning. By targeting players who can adapt to multiple roles – such as Allan, who can play on either flank, and Marmoush, who offers pace and creativity – the club is building a squad capable of sustaining its domestic dominance and competing on the European stage. Gakpo, with his experience in both the Premier League and the Champions League, would fit seamlessly into this vision, offering a blend of physicality and technical skill that aligns with Guardiola’s high‑pressing, possession‑based philosophy.
It is also worth noting that Liverpool’s reluctance to sell Gakpo could shape the dynamics of any potential deal. The Reds would likely demand a substantial fee, possibly in the region of £80 million or more, given the player’s contract length and recent performances.
Moreover, they would probably seek assurances that they receive suitable replacements, which could involve a swap deal or additional players moving to Anfield. This could complicate City’s pursuit, especially as they balance multiple negotiations simultaneously. In summary, Manchester City’s interest in Cody Gakpo reflects a broader ambition to reinforce their attacking line‑up with versatile, high‑caliber talent.
While Liverpool remains hesitant to let the Dutch forward depart without adequate replacements, the ongoing talks surrounding Allan, Marmoush, and potential PSG targets suggest that City are prepared to act decisively. Should a deal materialise, Gakpo would join a squad already brimming with quality and depth, further cementing the club’s status as a perennial contender for both domestic and European silverware.