Roberto De Zerbi’s Tottenham Hotspur are unlikely to get their hands on Liverpool attacking mainstay Cody Gakpo.
According to Football Insider, Liverpool could block Cody Gakpo’s exit this summer due to injury concerns around Hugo Ekitike. Tottenham are keen on acquiring the services of Gakpo as Roberto De Zerbi is determined to add more quality on the flanks, but the Merseyside club may refuse to sell.
The French striker Ekitike, who joined Liverpool last summer and was enjoying an impressive debut campaign with 23 goal contributions, suffered an achilles tendon injury towards the end of the season and is unlikely to return for the first half of the new campaign.
Liverpool’s cover crisis
As a result, Liverpool require additional cover at centre-forward. Either they could look to sign a new striker to support Alexander Isak, or block Gakpo’s exit, as he is equally effective in central roles and played as a striker towards the end of last season, with both their primary attacking options unavailable.
They consider Gakpo a more practical solution, as it allows them to save funds. Arne Slot’s departure unsettled the Dutch forward, who has been linked with an exit; however, new manager Andoni Iraola views him as an integral part of his plans, and Liverpool are understood to be reluctant to sell.
Tottenham’s alternatives
Liverpool’s refusal to sell Gakpo is a significant setback for Tottenham, as Roberto De Zerbi considers him a top target to bolster his flanks. The 27-year-old, who joined Liverpool at the start of 2023 from PSV Eindhoven in a deal worth £37 million, contributed towards 15 goals last season.
He has the pace, directness, can dribble past oppositions and, more importantly, possesses the final product. These qualities make him a perfect fit for De Zerbi’s team, as he seeks a world-class left-winger to bolster his attack. With Wilson Odobert as his only specialist left-winger, De Zerbi’s desire for an additional top-tier option is clear.
Gakpo’s Premier League experience is what gives him the edge over other targets, but Liverpool are not looking to entertain any offers for him. As a result, the North London club might have to shift their focus to Crysencio Summerville or Said El Mala, who are likely to be available.