“Liverpool Have Responded…” – Journalist Reveals What Anfield Chiefs Reportedly Told Tottenham About Cody Gakpo Transfer Situation

A respected football journalist has provided insight into Liverpool’s reported stance regarding Tottenham Hotspur’s interest in Cody Gakpo, suggesting that any potential transfer could involve a player exchange between the two Premier League clubs.

Recent reports have linked Tottenham with a possible move for the Dutch forward, with transfer expert Fabrizio Romano previously stating that Spurs’ interest in Gakpo was a situation worth monitoring throughout the remainder of the transfer window.

The 27-year-old attacker has become a key part of Liverpool’s squad since arriving from PSV Eindhoven, but speculation over his future has continued despite reports that the club is not actively looking to sell him.

According to Daily Mail journalist Simon Jones, Liverpool’s current position is that they have no desire to lose Gakpo this summer. The club’s hierarchy is reportedly focused on strengthening new manager Andoni Iraola’s attacking options rather than reducing them.

However, transfer speculation has not disappeared, especially with Tottenham believed to be interested in bringing the Netherlands international to north London.

At the same time, rumours have also emerged suggesting Liverpool could have an interest in Tottenham defender Djed Spence. Discussions online have suggested a possible swap arrangement involving Gakpo moving to Spurs and Spence heading in the opposite direction to Anfield.

Speaking on the Last Word on Spurs podcast, Mirror journalist and Sports Journalist Association president Darren Lewis discussed the possibility of a deal involving both players.

Lewis explained that Liverpool’s interest in Spence would not come as a surprise because of the defender’s versatility and ability to operate in multiple positions.

“I’m not surprised Liverpool like him because he can do a lot of different things,” Lewis said. “He can play on either side, left or right, and he would provide competition for Jeremie Frimpong.”

The journalist then addressed the possibility of Gakpo joining Tottenham and claimed that Liverpool’s stance could involve requesting Spence as part of any agreement.

“Looking at the Gakpo situation, Liverpool’s message has apparently been: ‘Yes, you can have him, but we want Spence,’ and there could be around £30 million to £35 million involved in the deal,” Lewis suggested.

He also believes that Spence himself would be interested in making the move to Liverpool if the opportunity becomes available.

“I think there is definitely a deal that could happen because Spence would want to go,” Lewis added. “I would be very surprised if he is still a Tottenham player when the window closes. If Liverpool turn their interest into an official offer, I think he would be open to joining.”

Could Gakpo and Spence Really Exchange Clubs?

From a squad-building perspective, a possible swap deal does make some sense for Liverpool, although there are several factors to consider.

The Reds currently have more depth on the left side of their attack than they do at right-back. With Gakpo, Rio Ngumoha, and Victor Munoz all capable of contributing from the left wing position, Liverpool have several attacking options in that area.

Meanwhile, their right-back situation is far less comfortable. With Conor Bradley and Jeremie Frimpong both having experienced injury problems, Liverpool have previously been forced to use midfielders in emergency defensive roles.

Adding Spence would provide much-needed cover and competition at full-back. The Tottenham defender is capable of playing on either flank, giving Liverpool additional flexibility across the defense.

However, allowing Gakpo to leave would come with significant risks.

Despite having options on the left wing, Liverpool’s overall attacking depth is not particularly strong. The departure of Mohamed Salah has already removed one of the team’s biggest attacking threats, while Hugo Ekitike’s long-term absence has further reduced their options in the final third.

Gakpo’s ability to play multiple attacking positions makes him a valuable asset. He can operate as a winger, central forward, or attacking midfielder, giving the manager tactical flexibility.

Because of this, Liverpool would need to carefully consider whether replacing him with a defender would weaken their attacking strength too much.

Spurs Could Demand a High Price for Spence

Another factor is the potential cost of signing Djed Spence.

The 25-year-old has established himself as an England international and reportedly enhanced his reputation after an impressive World Cup campaign. Because of his age, experience, and versatility, Tottenham would likely demand a significant transfer fee.

While Spence would solve some of Liverpool’s defensive concerns, the club would need to determine whether the financial and squad benefits outweigh losing a player like Gakpo.

The Dutch forward has shown his importance at Liverpool through his ability to score important goals and contribute in different tactical systems. Replacing that kind of player is not always straightforward.

A Deal Remains Possible, But Complicated

At this stage, a Gakpo-Spence swap remains only a possibility rather than a confirmed negotiation. Liverpool’s reported desire to keep Gakpo and strengthen their attack suggests they would not consider selling him unless the right opportunity presented itself.

However, the club’s need for defensive reinforcements could make the situation more complicated. If Liverpool believe Spence can solve a major problem at right-back, they may be willing to explore creative solutions.

For Tottenham, acquiring a player like Gakpo would represent a major attacking upgrade, while Liverpool would gain a versatile defender who could provide valuable cover.

Whether the two clubs can reach an agreement remains uncertain, but with the transfer window still open, both the Gakpo and Spence situations will continue to attract attention.

For now, supporters of both clubs will be watching closely to see whether these rumours develop into a serious negotiation or remain nothing more than transfer-window speculation.