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Manchester City have opened talks with Liverpool over a potential move for forward Cody Gakpo, with the Netherlands international emerging as one of the major transfer stories ahead of Tuesday's deadline.
The 27-year-old has attracted serious interest from both Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur, but City is reportedly Gakpo's preferred destination should he leave Anfield before the transfer window closes.
City made formal contact with Liverpool on Saturday evening as they explore the possibility of bringing the versatile attacker to the Etihad Stadium.
Gakpo's future has become more uncertain following Liverpool's agreement to sign Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola in a deal worth up to £123 million. However, Liverpool are understood to want another attacking player through the door before allowing Gakpo to depart.
The Premier League champions have shown interest in Brighton winger Yankuba Minteh and Crystal Palace forward Ismaila Sarr as they consider their options.
Gakpo joined Liverpool from PSV Eindhoven in January 2023 and has established himself as a versatile member of the squad. He has scored 33 goals in 91 Premier League appearances since arriving in England.
The forward has also made an immediate impact this season. He assisted Alexander Isak's goal during Liverpool's 2-2 draw with Nottingham Forest at Anfield on Saturday, having scored in the club's previous league draw against Newcastle United.
Liverpool reporter Aadam Patel said the club regard Gakpo as a proven Premier League attacker capable of playing in multiple positions. He has contributed a goal and an assist across Liverpool's opening two league matches this season.
However, Liverpool have indicated throughout the summer that they would consider selling Gakpo if their desired attacking reinforcements arrived and a strong offer was made.
The timing of the negotiations could make the situation complicated for Liverpool, with only a few days remaining before the transfer window closes. The club must decide whether the financial benefit of selling Gakpo outweighs the potential impact of losing an experienced forward.
Liverpool could receive around £85 million for the Dutchman, which would represent a significant profit on the £35 million they paid PSV for him in 2023.
However, allowing him to leave could create problems. Hugo Ekitike is expected to miss an extended period with an Achilles injury, while Alexander Isak has also experienced fitness issues.
With Barcola arriving and other attacking options emerging, Gakpo may no longer be guaranteed a starting position. That could make a move appealing to the player, particularly if City can offer him a prominent role.
