Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo has decided he wants to join Manchester City, with the two Premier League clubs now in talks over a transfer agreement. The news, reported by David Ornstein of The Athletic and covered by Sportskeeda, comes with the summer transfer window set to close on Tuesday.
Manchester City currently sit top of the Premier League with a perfect six points from two games, scoring six goals and conceding just two. They hold a three-point lead over Brighton and face Coventry City at home on September 5th. This strong start provides an attractive backdrop for potential new arrivals.
Why would Gakpo leave Liverpool?
Cody Gakpo, 27, signed a five-year contract with Liverpool in 2023, meaning he still has four years remaining on his deal. Despite scoring 18 goals and providing 7 assists in Liverpool's title-winning 2024/25 campaign, the Dutch international has struggled for form in recent months. His desire for a fresh challenge appears to have crystallized with Manchester City as the preferred destination. Liverpool's own transfer activity is a factor, as they are closing in on a deal to sign Bradley Barcola from Paris Saint-Germain for a reported £106 million up front with around £17 million in add-ons.
What does this mean for Manchester City's squad?
The potential arrival of Gakpo would address a specific need for Pep Guardiola's side. Manchester City have seen wide players Omar Marmoush and Savinho depart this summer, while Jeremy Doku is currently injured. Gakpo is expected to add quality and depth to City's wide attacking areas, offering versatility across the front line. His proven Premier League goal output from the previous season makes him a ready-made option for a team looking to maintain its early momentum. Fans can track the evolving squad composition on our squad page.
How are the transfer negotiations progressing?
Discussions between Liverpool and Manchester City are underway, with Gakpo's representatives also involved. The focus is on agreeing a transfer fee before Tuesday's deadline. Tottenham Hotspur had also shown interest in the player this summer but now look set to miss out. Spurs manager Roberto De Zerbi had previously mentioned the idea of a 'bomba signing' joining his team before the window shuts, but their significant spending of over £300 million and two opening league defeats may have altered their plans.
What is the broader transfer context?
This potential intra-league transfer is part of a frantic end to the window. Liverpool's move for Bradley Barcola, which would be their second-most expensive signing after the £125 million capture of Alexander Isak last summer, suggests they are preparing for Gakpo's exit. Barcola has agreed to a contract at Anfield until 2031 and will undergo a medical, with documents being exchanged with PSG. For Manchester City, securing a player of Gakpo's caliber would be a significant boost as they aim to defend their league position. The current standings show their strong start, and adding firepower could be key to sustaining it.
The coming days will be decisive. If Manchester City and Liverpool can find common ground on a fee, Cody Gakpo could swiftly become a new option for the league leaders ahead of their next fixture. The club's immediate focus, however, remains on maintaining their perfect start when they host Coventry.
