Manchester City Joins Tottenham in Chase for Cody Gakpo
Manchester City have stepped directly into Tottenham’s chase for Cody Gakpo, but Liverpool are standing firm and setting a steep condition before even thinking about a sale.
Transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano revealed that City have now held face‑to‑face talks with the Liverpool forward’s representatives, opening discussions over potential contract figures as they explore a late-window move.
“Manchester City have made direct contact and held a meeting with Cody Gakpo's agents,” Romano said on his YouTube channel, outlining how the Premier League champions have formally joined the race.
Spurs’ verbal agreement – but no exit push from Gakpo
Tottenham, though, have not disappeared from the picture. Far from it.
According to Romano, Spurs already have a verbal agreement in place with Gakpo over personal terms, an understanding that has been in place since July. The framework of a contract is there, ready to be activated if Liverpool ever open the door.
Crucially, that stance from Tottenham does not reflect any agitation from the player’s side. Gakpo is described as “very happy” at Anfield and is not pushing to leave, with the Spurs agreement simply parked in the background, waiting on club-to-club negotiations that have yet to materialise.
From Tottenham’s perspective, the financial side on the player’s end is effectively done. All that’s missing is Liverpool’s willingness to negotiate a fee.
City enter the race
This is where Manchester City come in.
Romano explained that City have now “entered the race” and, like Spurs, have met Gakpo’s camp and begun running through numbers. The champions are prepared to compete directly with Tottenham if Liverpool soften their stance.
The interest from Pep Guardiola’s side ramps up the pressure around Anfield. Two heavyweight suitors, one versatile attacker, and a shrinking window.
But Liverpool are not blinking.
Liverpool’s non-negotiable condition
Romano was clear on one point: Liverpool will not sanction Gakpo’s departure in the final days of the summer window unless they first secure two wingers.
No replacements, no sale.
Inside that plan sits a clear hierarchy. Bradley Barcola is described as the “top priority” for Liverpool, with that deal “still fully on” as the club push to land the talented wide man. Only after that would they look to bring in a second winger.
Talks have also taken place over Iyenoma Mudryk, with Liverpool holding discussions around two separate offers and remaining in contact with his agent. Alternatives are on the table as well, as the club work through a shortlist to protect their attacking depth.
So the equation is simple and brutal for City and Spurs: unless Liverpool land Barcola and another winger, Gakpo stays.
Two giants circling, one club calling the shots. The clock is ticking on this window – but is it ticking for a blockbuster move, or for Liverpool to slam it shut in their rivals’ faces?
