Man City Intervenes in Cody Gakpo Transfer Saga

Manchester City have stepped directly into Tottenham’s pursuit of Cody Gakpo, but Liverpool are making one thing crystal clear: he doesn’t leave unless two new wingers walk through the door.

Transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano outlined the state of play, revealing that City have now held a face-to-face meeting with Gakpo’s representatives as the Premier League champions look to muscle in on a deal that Spurs have been quietly building for weeks.

On his YouTube channel, Romano explained that Tottenham already have a verbal agreement in place with Gakpo over personal terms, an understanding that has been in place since July. The framework of a contract is there, the finances are aligned from Spurs’ side, and they are simply waiting for the chance to turn that into a deal with Liverpool.

Crucially, that agreement does not mean Gakpo is pushing to leave Anfield. Romano stressed that the Dutch forward is happy at Liverpool, and the situation is being driven by the clubs rather than any transfer request. For Tottenham, though, the green light from Liverpool is the missing piece; their side of the personal package is ready the moment the clubs can agree a fee.

Just as Spurs looked well placed, City arrived.

According to Romano, Manchester City have “made direct contact and held a meeting” with Gakpo’s camp and have already started talking through contract figures. That step signals serious intent from the Etihad, with City prepared to go head-to-head with Tottenham for the 25-year-old.

The battle might be forming between North London and the blue half of Manchester, but the decisive power still sits firmly on Merseyside.

Romano made Liverpool’s stance clear: the club will not approve Gakpo’s departure in the final days of the window unless they first secure two wingers. No exceptions, no late panic sale.

Liverpool’s recruitment plan is already mapped out. Bradley Barcola is described as the “top priority”, with that move “still fully on” as talks continue. Alongside Barcola, the Reds are working on another wide option and have held discussions around two offers for Iyenoma Mudryk, remaining in contact with his agent while also keeping alternative targets alive.

So the equation is simple but ruthless: only if Liverpool land Barcola and another winger – whether Mudryk or someone else on their shortlist – will the door open for Cody Gakpo to leave.

Until then, City and Spurs can circle all they like. The key to this transfer saga sits in Liverpool’s ability to reshape their attack before the window slams shut.