Tottenham are said to have positioned themselves as the leading Premier League club in the race for Cody Gakpo, though Manchester United’s interest in the Liverpool forward — built up over several years of scouting — hasn’t gone away.
Spurs have already shown this summer they’re willing to go up against England’s top clubs for big-name targets, and with De Zerbi now looking to add to his attack, another major transfer battle could be brewing. Gakpo is seen as one of Tottenham’s top candidates for the left-wing spot, though United’s long-standing interest may complicate things.
Spurs Mean Business
Tottenham’s summer dealings underline their ambition. They’re reported to have fought off both Manchester City and Arsenal to land Sandro Tonali from Newcastle for £100m, then beaten Manchester United to West Ham’s Mateus Fernandes in an £85m deal. With the squad largely reinforced elsewhere, De Zerbi is now focused on a left-sided forward, and Gakpo sits high on that list.
Spurs Seen as Front-Runners
Journalist Ben Jacobs says Tottenham are currently the most realistic destination should Gakpo choose to leave Anfield. United have long admired the Dutchman, even before his Liverpool move, but a direct transfer between the two rivals is considered very unlikely given their history — a problem Tottenham don’t have. Jacobs also noted there’s no real evidence yet that Gakpo is pushing to leave, despite reports circulating in the Netherlands, meaning Liverpool aren’t currently under any pressure — though that could change if he indicates otherwise.
Romano Backs Up the Interest
Fabrizio Romano has also linked Gakpo to Tottenham’s winger search, while noting he’s one of a number of players being considered. Savinho remains Spurs’ top target, and reported interest in AC Milan’s Rafael Leão has cooled, even with the Portuguese forward made available — a call that reflects De Zerbi’s preference for players who suit his system.
Quiet Season, Strong World Cup
Domestically, Gakpo’s campaign was relatively subdued, with nine goals and six assists in 52 games. But he showed his class at the World Cup, scoring three and assisting once in four appearances for the Netherlands, and his ability to operate in multiple attacking roles remains a big part of his appeal to De Zerbi.
No Pressure on Liverpool Yet
Nothing is close to concrete at this stage — Gakpo hasn’t requested a move, and Liverpool have no plans to sell. Even so, Tottenham are keeping a close eye on the situation, as are Manchester United. Having already won several transfer battles this summer, Spurs look increasingly confident of landing marquee signings, with Jacobs naming them the “most concrete” option should Gakpo’s Liverpool future come into question.
