Manchester City make approach for Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo, says Di Marzio

Manchester City have entered the race to sign Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo, according to Italian transfer journalist Gianluca Di Marzio.

Di Marzio reports that Manchester City have begun communication with Liverpool’s management to explore whether a deal for the Netherlands international can be completed during the current transfer window.

The Premier League champions are understood to have stepped up their interest in an attempt to move ahead of the other clubs monitoring Gakpo’s situation. Tottenham are regarded as one of the leading clubs interested in the 26-year-old.

Gakpo remains an important member of the Liverpool squad and has made a strong start to the season. He played a significant role in Liverpool’s comeback against Newcastle United in the opening round of the Premier League, scoring one of the goals in the recovery.

Manchester City’s interest comes as the club seeks to strengthen its attacking options. Their pursuit of Gakpo is also linked to the expected departures of Omar Marmoush and Savinho to Tottenham.

The possible move would see Gakpo leave Liverpool after joining the club from Dutch side PSV Eindhoven in 2023. Since arriving at Anfield, he has made 181 appearances for Liverpool, scoring 51 goals and providing 23 assists.

Gakpo’s versatility has made him a valuable option for Liverpool, and his contribution at the start of the current campaign has increased attention around his future. Manchester City must now compete with Tottenham and other interested clubs if they are to secure an agreement with Liverpool.

According to Di Marzio, City’s initial contact with Liverpool represents the first stage of their efforts to assess the possibility of a transfer. No agreement has been announced, but the move places Gakpo among the attacking players being considered as Manchester City look to reinforce their forward line.

The Netherlands forward’s record since joining Liverpool underlines his importance to the club. Across his 181 appearances, he has registered 51 goals and 23 assists, while his early-season performance has further strengthened his position as one of Liverpool’s key attacking players.