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Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly stepping up their search for a new attacker, with Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo emerging as the leading candidate to strengthen Roberto De Zerbi’s squad before the new Premier League season.
After an impressive summer focused on reinforcing midfield and defense, Spurs are now turning their attention to the final third. Questions remain over the consistency of Mohammed Kudus and Mathys Tel, prompting the club to explore experienced attacking options capable of making an immediate impact.
According to recent reports, Gakpo has moved to the top of Tottenham’s shortlist, although completing a deal with Premier League rivals Liverpool is expected to be a significant challenge.
Quick Transfer Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Player | Cody Gakpo |
| Current Club | Liverpool |
| Interested Club | Tottenham Hotspur |
| Position | Left Winger / Forward |
| Age | 27 |
| Estimated Value | £51 million |
| Current Status | Leading Tottenham target |
Tottenham Shift Focus to Attack
Tottenham have already enjoyed one of the busiest transfer windows in England, investing heavily across several positions.
With much of the defensive rebuild completed, Roberto De Zerbi now wants greater attacking quality to compete across domestic and European competitions.
Although Spurs possess exciting attacking talent, consistency remains a concern.
The club are reportedly looking for a player who can provide:
- Reliable goals
- Tactical versatility
- Premier League experience
- Strong aerial presence
- Ability to play across the front line
Gakpo fits many of those requirements.
Why Cody Gakpo Appeals to De Zerbi
The Dutch international has proven himself as a dependable attacking option since joining Liverpool.
While naturally most effective from the left wing, he is also comfortable playing through the middle when required.
Key Strengths
- Intelligent movement inside the penalty area
- Strong finishing
- Versatility across multiple attacking positions
- Excellent aerial ability
- Experience in high-pressure matches
Rather than relying purely on pace, Gakpo thrives through positioning, timing, and intelligent movement.
Liverpool Career So Far
| Statistic | Total |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 180 |
| Starts | 127 |
| Goals | 50 |
| Assists | 21 |
Those numbers underline his consistent contribution despite intense competition for places at Anfield.
Can Gakpo Rediscover His Best Form?
Although Gakpo enjoyed an outstanding 2024-25 campaign, his most recent season was less productive.
He scored:
- 9 goals
- 52 appearances
Reports suggest he was less influential when asked to shoulder greater creative responsibility.
Tottenham believe De Zerbi’s attacking system could help unlock the qualities that previously made him one of Liverpool’s most dangerous forwards.
James Maddison Could Hold the Key
One factor that could influence Gakpo’s success is Tottenham’s creative support behind him.
James Maddison’s ability to deliver accurate passes and crosses could suit the Dutch forward’s movement inside the box.
However, relying heavily on Maddison also carries some risk after his previous injury setbacks.
Adding another creative attacker could therefore remain a priority even if Gakpo joins.
Can Tottenham Afford the Deal?
Financially, this would not be a straightforward transfer.
Tottenham have already committed more than £200 million during the current transfer window.
Liverpool are also unlikely to sell one of their experienced attackers cheaply.
Estimated Situation
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Market Value | £51m |
| Liverpool Asking Price | Likely Higher |
| Difficulty | High |
Given current Premier League transfer prices, Liverpool may demand well above Gakpo’s estimated market value.
Could Djed Spence Be Part of the Negotiations?
One interesting possibility mentioned in reports involves Djed Spence.
Liverpool have previously been linked with strengthening at right-back.
A player-plus-cash agreement involving Spence could potentially help reduce the overall transfer fee, although no formal discussions have been confirmed.
How Gakpo Could Fit at Tottenham
A possible attacking setup could look like this:
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Left Wing | Cody Gakpo |
| Striker | Mathys Tel / New Option |
| Right Wing | Mohammed Kudus |
| Attacking Midfield | James Maddison |
His versatility would also allow De Zerbi to rotate systems throughout the season.
By the Numbers
| Number | Meaning |
|---|---|
| 27 | Gakpo’s age |
| 180 | Liverpool appearances |
| 50 | Goals for Liverpool |
| 21 | Liverpool assists |
| £51m | Estimated market valuation |
Did You Know?
- 🇳🇱 Cody Gakpo can play as both a left winger and central striker.
- ⚽ He has scored 50 goals since joining Liverpool.
- 🔄 Tottenham have already focused much of their summer recruitment on strengthening midfield and defense.
- 🏆 Roberto De Zerbi is now looking to add greater firepower before the new season begins.
Key Takeaways
- Tottenham have reportedly made Cody Gakpo their leading attacking target.
- Roberto De Zerbi wants greater competition in the forward line.
- Gakpo offers versatility, experience, and proven Premier League quality.
- Liverpool are expected to demand a fee well above his £51 million valuation.
- A deal involving Djed Spence has been suggested as one possible route to negotiations.
Final Thoughts
Cody Gakpo would represent a significant addition to Tottenham’s evolving squad under Roberto De Zerbi. His ability to operate across multiple attacking positions, combined with his experience at both Premier League and Champions League level, makes him an attractive option for a team aiming to compete consistently at the highest level.
The biggest obstacle remains Liverpool’s willingness to sell to a direct domestic rival. Even if Spurs are prepared to meet the financial demands, convincing Liverpool to part with an experienced attacker may prove the most difficult part of the negotiations. If a deal can be struck, however, Gakpo could become one of Tottenham’s most important signings of the summer.
