Manchester City have reportedly placed Cody Gakpo on their transfer radar, despite the Dutch forward 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 the imminent departure of Brazilian winger Savinho – and potentially fellow forward Omar Marmoush – to 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 speculation noteworthy.
Gakpo is tied to Anfield until 2030, meaning any suitor would need to present a compelling package to persuade the Reds to part with their 27‑year‑old star. At present, Liverpool appear reluctant to let the Dutchman leave. Club officials have indicated that they would only consider a sale if they could secure the services of two quality wide attackers to replace him. This stance underscores Gakpo’s importance to Jurgen Klopp’s side, especially after his impressive performance in the Premier League opener against Newcastle United, where he started the match and found the net.
His ability to combine pace, technical skill, and a keen eye for goal has made him a prized asset, and the Reds are keen to retain that firepower for the foreseeable future. City’s interest in Gakpo comes amid a broader overhaul of their forward line. The club has already made significant moves in the transfer market, most notably securing a verbal agreement with Brazilian club Palmeiras to bring in 22‑year‑old winger Allan for a fee reported to be around £34 million – £32 million guaranteed plus £2 million in potential add‑ons. Allan is being positioned as a direct replacement for Savinho, who is set to join Tottenham in a deal that could reach £85 million, subject to a medical that was completed last week.
This influx of talent signals Pep Guardiola’s intent to refresh his attacking options and maintain the squad’s depth across all competitions. In addition to Allan, City have been linked with a pair of promising Paris Saint‑Germain youngsters – Bradley Barcola and Ibrahim Mbaye – as part of their long‑term recruitment strategy. Meanwhile, their pursuit of Brighton’s Yankuba Minteh has already encountered resistance, with multiple offers reportedly turned down by the Seagulls.
The club’s activity highlights a proactive approach to securing versatile forwards who can thrive in Guardiola’s fluid, possession‑based system. The potential acquisition of Omar Marmoush also remains a key talking point.
Sky Sports News recently reported that negotiations between Manchester City and Tottenham over Marmoush were nearing a conclusion. Although Marmoush was named on the bench for City’s Premier League opener against Bournemouth, he did not feature in the match. Should the deal materialise, he would add further depth to City’s wing options, complementing both Allan and any future signings such as Gakpo.
While the transfer window continues to churn, City’s strategic focus appears to be on assembling a balanced and adaptable attack. The club’s scouting network has identified several players who can operate across the front three, offering Guardiola the flexibility to rotate personnel without sacrificing quality.
If Gakpo were to join the Etihad, he would bring a blend of physicality and technical finesse that could seamlessly integrate with the likes of Erling Haaland, Phil Foden, and Jack Grealish. His proven record of scoring and assisting in both the Premier League and European competitions would provide City with an additional goal‑threat on the left flank, while also allowing him to cut inside and link up with midfield playmakers. However, any potential move for Gakpo faces significant hurdles. Liverpool’s contract length, combined with their reluctance to sell without adequate replacements, means that City would likely need to present a substantial financial incentive and perhaps include player exchanges or add‑on clauses to sweeten the deal.
Moreover, the Premier League’s financial fair play regulations require clubs to balance their books, meaning that any high‑value transfer must be carefully accounted for within City’s overall wage and transfer budget. Beyond the immediate tactical considerations, Gakpo’s possible arrival would also have commercial implications. The Dutch forward enjoys a strong fan base and a growing global profile, which could enhance Manchester City’s marketability in the Netherlands and across Europe.
His presence could attract new sponsorship opportunities and boost merchandise sales, aligning with the club’s broader brand expansion goals. In summary, Manchester City’s interest in Cody Gakpo reflects a comprehensive plan to reinforce their attacking line‑up ahead of a demanding season that includes domestic league battles, cup competitions, and a deep run in the Champions League. While Liverpool remains steadfast in retaining the player for now, the evolving transfer landscape – with Savinho’s departure, Allan’s imminent signing, and the possible addition of Marmoush – suggests that City will continue to explore all viable avenues to secure top‑tier talent.
Whether Gakpo ultimately stays at Anfield or makes the move to the Etihad will depend on negotiations, financial terms, and the strategic priorities of both clubs as the summer window progresses.