Cody Gakpo wants Tottenham move as Spurs push Liverpool for deal

Tottenham Hotspur are pushing to sign Cody Gakpo from Liverpool and reportedly want the Netherlands international brought in quickly, with the forward himself open to making the move to north London.

Spurs have pursued Gakpo for more than two months and have now stepped up their efforts, with reports in the Netherlands claiming personal terms have already been agreed. The major obstacle remains reaching an agreement with Liverpool.

According to Dutch journalist Joost Blaauwhof, Tottenham want to get Gakpo “onboard quickly” as Roberto De Zerbi looks to strengthen his attacking options before the transfer window closes.

Tottenham have already made an official approach for the 27-year-old and are now attempting to convince Liverpool to sanction his departure.

Algemeen Dagblad reports Spurs are willing to offer around €60m for the attacker, although there is currently no agreement between the Premier League clubs.

That leaves Liverpool in a strong negotiating position. Gakpo is contracted until 2030, removing any immediate pressure to sell and potentially making Tottenham's proposed valuation difficult to negotiate.

Gakpo's own position could nevertheless help Spurs. Reports from the Netherlands indicate he is keen on joining Tottenham despite the club not having European football this season.

Tottenham's appointment of Roberto De Zerbi appears to be an important part of their pursuit.

Algemeen Dagblad reports that the Italian coach would like to have Gakpo in his squad, while the forward's interest in Tottenham is also said to be strongly connected to the opportunity to work under De Zerbi.

That is significant given the European situation facing the player. Liverpool can offer Champions League football, whereas Tottenham failed to qualify for Europe.

Moving to Spurs would therefore involve Gakpo giving up European competition for at least one season, suggesting Tottenham's sporting project and the role De Zerbi has presented could carry considerable weight in his thinking.

However, Gakpo is not expected to force Liverpool's hand.

Blaauwhof describes the Netherlands international as a model professional who will not “rebel” because of the uncertainty surrounding his future. Unless Liverpool accept Tottenham's proposal, he is expected to continue fulfilling his responsibilities with his current club.

The transfer speculation has not prevented Gakpo from making an impact on the pitch.

He scored and provided an assist as Liverpool beat Como 2-0 in a friendly on Sunday, delivering a productive performance while negotiations over his future continue.

Gakpo has registered 50 goals and 23 assists in 180 appearances for Liverpool, including nine goals and six assists last season.

His ability to operate across the front line helps explain Tottenham's sustained interest. For De Zerbi, adding a forward with extensive Premier League experience would provide another established attacking option without the adaptation period often associated with recruiting from overseas.

Liverpool's leverage remains considerable, though. Gakpo has four years remaining on his contract and there is no indication from the reports that he intends to create pressure for a departure. Tottenham therefore need to convince Liverpool financially rather than rely on the player's preference to force a deal.

Tottenham's next task is clear: they must produce an offer Liverpool are prepared to accept before the summer window closes.

Gakpo's willingness to join gives Spurs encouragement, but his contract until 2030 means Liverpool retain control of the situation. With the forward continuing to perform professionally and Champions League football available to him at Anfield, there is little pressure on his current club to compromise.

The coming negotiations should therefore determine whether Tottenham's long-running pursuit finally produces a deal or whether Gakpo begins the new season with Liverpool.

Should Tottenham increase their offer for Cody Gakpo beyond €60m?