The battle for Cody Gakpo has taken a dramatic turn, with Manchester City reportedly showing interest in the Liverpool forward before the September 1 transfer deadline. However, no formal club-to-club talks have taken place between Manchester City and Liverpool, and Spurs remain the more established Premier League suitor.

Tottenham have been pursuing Gakpo while negotiating with Manchester City for Savinho and Omar Marmoush. Spurs have reportedly agreed a deal worth up to £85 million for Savinho, while discussions over Marmoush involve an initial loan and a potential £50 million purchase arrangement. City are considering attacking reinforcements because both players could leave for north London.

Gakpo’s versatility makes him an attractive target. The Netherlands international can operate as a central striker or on the left wing, and he scored in Liverpool’s opening-day draw with Newcastle. He remains under contract at Anfield until 2030, giving Liverpool a strong negotiating position.

Liverpool do not currently want to sell Gakpo and would reportedly require two new wide forwards before considering his departure. The club are pursuing Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola and have also been linked with Ibrahim Mbaye, while Liverpool have had bids of £50 million and £60 million rejected for Brighton’s Yankuba Minteh.

Unless Liverpool can secure suitable attacking replacements before the deadline, Gakpo is expected to remain at Anfield. Manchester City’s interest could create a dramatic late transfer battle, but Tottenham’s pursuit currently appears further advanced.