Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly emerged as the most credible Premier League suitor for Cody Gakpo, though Manchester United are also said to retain longstanding admiration for the Liverpool forward.
Spurs have already shown this summer they’re willing to go toe-to-toe with the division’s biggest names for top targets, and with De Zerbi now turning his attention to the front line, another heated transfer race could be brewing. Gakpo has become one of Tottenham’s top candidates for the left flank, though United’s continued interest threatens to complicate matters.
Spurs Show Big-Club Ambition
Tottenham’s summer has been defined by boldness. They reportedly saw off competition from Manchester City and Arsenal to land Sandro Tonali from Newcastle in a £100million deal, then pulled off a similar coup for Mateus Fernandes, beating United to the West Ham midfielder in an £85million move. Those signings have underlined De Zerbi’s ambitions in north London, and with the squad largely reshaped elsewhere, a new left-sided attacker is now high on the agenda — leading Spurs to Gakpo.
Tottenham Tipped as Leading Contenders
Journalist Ben Jacobs has named Tottenham the most tangible landing spot should Gakpo leave Anfield, even though United’s old interest in the Dutchman — dating back to before his Liverpool move — hasn’t fully faded. A cross-city switch between United and Liverpool would be a rare and fraught proposition given the rivalry, whereas Tottenham face no such obstacle. Jacobs notes there’s no sign yet of Gakpo pushing for an exit despite chatter from the Netherlands, leaving Liverpool fairly unconcerned for now — though that could shift quickly if his stance changes.
Romano Echoes Spurs’ Interest
Fabrizio Romano has similarly linked Gakpo with Tottenham’s winger search, though he’s said to be one name among several. Savinho remains the priority target, according to Romano, while reports also suggest Spurs have cooled on Rafael Leão despite the Milan forward being made available — a call that hasn’t sat well with all fans, but reflects De Zerbi’s focus on players suited to his system.
Modest Season, Strong World Cup
Gakpo’s club form dipped somewhat last term, with nine goals and six assists in 52 games. But his World Cup showing for the Netherlands — three goals and an assist in four matches — served as a reminder of his ceiling, and his versatility across the front line makes him a natural fit for De Zerbi’s setup.
A Deal Still Far From Straightforward
With no transfer request on the table and Liverpool relaxed about his future, any Tottenham move remains speculative for now. But United’s interest lingers, Spurs are watching closely, and after a summer of winning battles against rival clubs, Tottenham appear increasingly confident they can compete for top-tier talent — with Jacobs’ “most concrete suitor” tag suggesting they’re best placed if Gakpo’s Anfield future does come into question.
