Manchester City are reportedly preparing a major bid for Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo, with the Premier League club keen to secure the Dutch international and potentially set a new transfer record for a Dutch player.
City have already reached an agreement in principle with Gakpo’s representatives over personal terms, according to reports. The next step is expected to be an approach to Liverpool, with the Manchester club preparing a proposal worth around £85 million, which would exceed €99 million.
Gakpo’s versatility is understood to be a major factor behind City’s interest. The Dutch forward can operate on either flank and is also capable of playing as a central striker. His ability to cover several attacking positions would give City greater flexibility when managing their forward line and adjusting their approach during matches.
If a deal is completed for the reported £85 million fee, Gakpo would become the most expensive Dutch player in football history. The current record is held by Frenkie de Jong, who moved from Ajax to Barcelona in 2019 for an initial fee of €75 million, with a further €11 million reportedly available through add-ons.
Liverpool, however, are not expected to consider selling Gakpo without first securing sufficient attacking cover. The club would want to maintain the strength and balance of its forward line before allowing an established player to leave.
That is where their interest in Paris Saint-Germain forward Bradley Barcola becomes significant. Liverpool are reportedly close to securing the Frenchman in a deal worth around £123 million. Despite that move, the club are also looking to bring in another winger to strengthen their attacking options.
Crystal Palace forward Ismaïla Sarr is among the players being considered. Liverpool have reportedly made an offer of around £50 million for the Senegal international as they explore further reinforcements for the wide areas.
Sarr’s potential arrival could therefore have an important bearing on Gakpo’s future. Should Liverpool complete a deal for another attacking player, the club may have greater flexibility in considering a substantial offer from Manchester City.
For City, meanwhile, the attraction of Gakpo lies not only in his ability to score and create chances but also in the range of positions he can occupy. A forward capable of playing centrally and from either side can provide tactical options across a demanding season.
The proposed move would also carry wider significance for Dutch football. A transfer worth £85 million would comfortably surpass the previous benchmark associated with De Jong, making Gakpo the subject of a new record if the reported terms are ultimately agreed.
Much, however, depends on Liverpool’s recruitment plans. Until the club secures adequate attacking replacements, City may face a difficult task in persuading the Premier League champions to part with one of their key forwards. The coming negotiations could determine whether Gakpo remains at Anfield or becomes the latest high-profile addition to Manchester City’s attacking ranks.
