Tottenham Hotspur are holding talks with the entourage of Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo over a potential summer transfer, according to The Athletic.
The pursuit is not entirely new, as Spurs had already identified Gakpo as a transfer target long before his January 2023 move to Liverpool came to fruition.
BBC football reporter Aadam Patel has now confirmed that Tottenham hold a ‘genuine interest’ in securing the Dutch forward’s signature this summer.
Patel stated: “We reported in June that a number of clubs, including Spurs, were monitoring Cody Gakpo’s situation at Liverpool.”
He went on to outline the significant financial hurdle standing between Spurs and completing any potential deal for the forward.
“The interest is certainly genuine for a player who has proven it in the Premier League, but the reality is that unless Liverpool bring in more players and Tottenham were to make an offer in excess of £60m, Gakpo stays put,” Patel added.
Liverpool’s willingness to sell is therefore heavily contingent on whether the club can bring in adequate attacking reinforcements of their own beforehand.
Patel also highlighted the potential role of Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola in determining whether the transfer moves forward at all.
“Right now, a move to Spurs looks unlikely, but if Liverpool are successful in their pursuit of Bradley Barcola, who primarily operates down the left flank, then this will be one to keep an eye on,” Patel said.
Barcola’s arrival at Anfield would likely provide Liverpool with enough attacking cover to sanction a departure for Gakpo, opening the door for Spurs to move decisively.
Gakpo has established himself as a consistent performer in the Premier League since joining Liverpool, making him an attractive option for clubs looking to strengthen their attacking options.
Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi will be eager to hit the ground running as his side prepares to face London rivals Brentford at the Gtech Community Stadium on Saturday, 22nd August in his first full campaign in charge.
Landing a player of Gakpo’s quality before the transfer window closes would represent a significant statement of intent from Spurs heading into the new season.