Tottenham step up Cody Gakpo pursuit as Liverpool face transfer dilemma

Tottenham Hotspur are stepping up their pursuit of Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo, with growing confidence in the Netherlands that the transfer has become a genuine possibility.

According to Voetbal International, Spurs have identified the Dutch international as a priority signing and believe he could be the final piece needed to transform Roberto De Zerbi's squad ahead of the new Premier League season.

Multiple sources cited by the Dutch publication indicate Tottenham's interest has intensified significantly, while people close to Gakpo reportedly believe the 27-year-old is open to making the move to north London.

Tottenham's ambitious summer rebuild has already gathered pace under De Zerbi.

The club have strengthened key areas with the arrivals of Jan Paul van Hecke, Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes, while Andrew Robertson and Marcos Senesi have also joined on free transfers.

Despite those additions, De Zerbi is still searching for another elite attacker and reportedly considers Gakpo the ideal player to complete his new-look frontline.

The Italian coach recently hinted that another major signing was on the way, and Voetbal International suggests the Liverpool forward could be the "bomba" he was referring to.

Tottenham's interest is clear, but convincing Liverpool to sell may prove considerably more difficult.

Gakpo remained an important figure last season under Arne Slot and is also expected to feature prominently in the plans of new head coach Andoni Iraola.

With Mohamed Salah having already departed Anfield, Liverpool may be reluctant to sanction the sale of another experienced forward unless they receive an offer well above their valuation.

Recent reports have suggested Tottenham are prepared to bid more than €60 million, although Liverpool have yet to indicate any willingness to negotiate.

The latest update is not the only positive signal to emerge from the Netherlands.

Eindhovens Dagblad journalist Rik Elfrink, who has closely followed Gakpo since his time at PSV Eindhoven, reports that the forward was interested in joining Tottenham earlier this summer.

PSV also retain a financial interest in any future sale, with the Eredivisie club entitled to five per cent of Liverpool's profit if Gakpo leaves Anfield.

However, Elfrink adds that Liverpool have not softened their position, leaving Spurs facing a significant challenge if they hope to complete one of the biggest transfers of the window.

While Tottenham appear increasingly determined to test Liverpool's resolve, the Merseyside club still hold all the negotiating power.

Gakpo remains under contract and continues to be viewed as an important member of Liverpool's attacking options, making any departure dependent on the club deciding that the financial package outweighs the sporting loss.

For now, Tottenham's interest is growing, but Liverpool's willingness to negotiate will ultimately determine whether the move progresses.

Tottenham are expected to decide whether to formalise their interest with an improved offer after reports of a potential bid exceeding €60 million. Liverpool's response will be crucial, with the Reds yet to signal any intention of selling one of their key attacking players before the transfer window closes.