Spurs step up pursuit of Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo

Tottenham are in advanced negotiations to sign Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo as new manager Roberto De Zerbi seeks to strengthen his attacking options before the start of the season.

German Sky Sport journalist Florian Plettenberg reported on Friday that Tottenham have held concrete discussions with Gakpo and have already made contact with Liverpool about the possibility of completing a deal.

However, sources close to the Netherlands international have stressed that no agreement has been reached. A move to Spurs is understood to be a serious option for Gakpo, but the two clubs have yet to settle the conditions of any potential transfer.

Tottenham’s interest comes as De Zerbi looks to add greater depth and quality to his forward line. The London club are exploring the possibility of bringing in the Liverpool player, who has become an important member of the Reds’ squad since arriving from the Netherlands.

Liverpool position

Liverpool would prefer to keep Gakpo and are not expected to consider his departure easily. Reports indicate that the club would first want to secure suitable attacking replacements before giving serious consideration to allowing the 27-year-old to leave.

Gakpo joined Liverpool from PSV Eindhoven in January 2023. During his time at Anfield, he has established himself as a significant part of the team, with his versatility and attacking contribution making him a valued member of the squad.

His current contract runs until 2030 after he agreed a renewal in August 2025. That long-term commitment strengthens Liverpool’s position in any negotiations and means Tottenham would have to reach an agreement with the player’s current club as well as with Gakpo himself.

For now, talks remain at an exploratory and advanced stage rather than representing a completed transfer. Sources close to Gakpo have rejected the suggestion that an agreement is already in place, while Tottenham’s interest is regarded as genuine.

Gakpo has also recently delivered an impressive display for the Netherlands at the 2026 World Cup. He scored three goals in four matches before the Dutch side were eliminated by Morocco in a last-16 penalty shootout.

That tournament form has added to the attention surrounding the forward, although there has been no indication that Liverpool have decided to sell him. The club’s preference remains to retain Gakpo, unless it can identify appropriate attacking alternatives and reach terms that suit its long-term plans.

Tottenham’s discussions with both the player and Liverpool are therefore expected to remain central to the possibility of a move, with no final decision or agreement reported at this stage.