Liverpool close door on Cody Gakpo exit as Tottenham switch focus to alternative targets

The Reds have reportedly ruled out selling the Netherlands forward despite strong interest from Tottenham, forcing Roberto De Zerbi to look elsewhere for attacking reinforcements.

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Liverpool have no intention of allowing Cody Gakpo to leave Anfield this summer despite growing interest from Tottenham Hotspur, according to fresh reports.

The Netherlands international has emerged as one of Roberto De Zerbi’s preferred attacking targets as the Tottenham boss continues his squad rebuild ahead of the new Premier League campaign. Spurs are keen to strengthen on the left wing and have monitored Gakpo’s situation closely following an inconsistent season at Liverpool.

However, Liverpool have reportedly made their position clear.

According to talkSPORT’s Alex Crook, the Reds do not intend to sell the 27-year-old and continue to view him as an important part of Andoni Iraola’s plans. Rather than reducing their attacking options, Liverpool are focused on adding further quality to their forward line this summer.

Gakpo endured a difficult 2025/26 campaign at club level, scoring nine goals in 52 appearances, a significant drop from the previous season. Like many of Liverpool’s players, his performances dipped during the club’s disappointing Premier League title defence.

The Dutch forward, though, rediscovered his form on the international stage.

MUENCHEN, GERMANY - 2 JULY, 2024: Cody Gakpo, The football match of EURO 2024 Romania vs. Netherlands at Alianz Arena — Photo by Vitalii Vitleo via DepositPhotos.com
MUENCHEN, GERMANY – 2 JULY, 2024: Cody Gakpo, The football match of EURO 2024 Romania vs. Netherlands at Alianz Arena — Photo by Vitalii Vitleo via DepositPhotos.com

He impressed for the Netherlands at the FIFA World Cup, contributing three goals and one assist before their surprise elimination by Morocco in the Round of 32. Those displays only reinforced Tottenham’s admiration, but they have not changed Liverpool’s stance.

Instead, Liverpool are continuing their pursuit of Bradley Barcola, who remains their preferred target to strengthen the left side of the attack. Reports suggest the Paris Saint-Germain winger is open to a move to Anfield, although the Ligue 1 champions are demanding a fee in excess of £116 million, making negotiations extremely challenging.

With Gakpo seemingly unavailable, Tottenham are now expected to intensify moves for alternative targets.

Among the players under consideration are Rafael Leão of AC Milan, Savinho from Manchester City and RB Leipzig winger Antonio Nusa. TEAMtalk previously reported that Leão is interested in joining Spurs, while the north London club are also battling Arsenal for Nusa’s signature.

Liverpool’s refusal to sell Gakpo underlines their determination to retain experienced attacking options despite recent speculation surrounding several members of their squad. While transfer rumours continue to swirl, the Dutch international is expected to report for pre-season training and remain a key part of Iraola’s plans heading into the new campaign.

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