Manchester City join Tottenham in transfer race for Liverpool star Cody Gakpo as transfer deadline approaches

The race for Gakpo has taken a dramatic turn in the final days of the summer window, with Manchester City emerging as serious contenders for the Dutchman’s signature. While Tottenham Hotspur have long been linked with the 27-year-old, the reigning Premier League champions have now made their move to explore a potential deal.

As reported by Soccernews.nl, Roberto De Zerbi is eager to add the versatile forward to his attacking ranks, viewing him as a key component for the upcoming campaign.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Man City made contact with Gakpo’s camp today to signal their intent. While there has not yet been formal contact between the two clubs, the interest is concrete and could lead to an official approach before the deadline.

Despite City's late entry, Tottenham remain firmly in the conversation and appear to have done significant groundwork already. The North London club has been tracking Gakpo for several weeks, identifying him as a "serious option" to upgrade their strike force.

Spurs are currently working on a double raid on Manchester City for Savinho and Omar Marmoush, but those moves haven't cooled their interest in the Liverpool man. In fact, De Zerbi’s side is reportedly preparing to submit a new bid after their initial offer, estimated to be worth around €60m.

The competition between the two clubs is heating up, with indications that personal terms may already be a factor in the negotiations. While Liverpool have maintained a firm stance that they do not wish to sell one of their most important assets, the financial muscle of their rivals could test that resolve. The Dutch winger showed his quality just this past weekend, scoring a brilliant goal in Liverpool's 2-2 draw with Newcastle United.

Liverpool officials have been clear about their position regarding the 27-year-old’s future. The club is not actively looking to sell Gakpo and would only consider his departure if a "very attractive" offer is presented. Furthermore, any exit would be strictly contingent on the Reds securing a high-quality replacement before the transfer window slams shut next Tuesday.

The club has been linked with Bradley Barcola and Yankuba Minteh as potential incoming options, but losing a player of Gakpo’s experience and versatility would still represent a significant risk for Andoni iraola’s side as they look to compete on multiple fronts.

The Gakpo saga appears to be part of a larger transfer "merry-go-round" that could define the final hours of the window. If Tottenham complete their deals for Savinho and Marmoush, it would theoretically free up Man City to pursue Gakpo as a direct replacement. This creates a domino effect where the movement of one player triggers a succession of deals across the league.

As the 11pm deadline on Tuesday approaches, the speculation is only expected to intensify. Liverpool fans will be hoping that the club can hold onto their number 18, who remains a vital part of the squad's attacking output.