Liverpool Determined to Keep Cody Gakpo Despite Tottenham Interest as Academy Prospect Draws Attention

Liverpool have made their position clear regarding Cody Gakpo’s future, with the club having no intention of allowing the forward to leave despite reported interest from Tottenham Hotspur. The Reds remain focused on strengthening their attacking options rather than reducing the quality available to new manager Arne Slot.

Tottenham have reportedly shown interest in the Dutch international as they look to improve their forward line, but Liverpool are not considering a sale at this stage. The club views Gakpo as an important member of the squad and believes his experience, versatility and ability to contribute in multiple attacking positions make him a valuable asset.

The 27-year-old still has a long-term contract at Anfield, with his current deal running until 2030. Given the increasing transfer fees being paid for established attacking players, Liverpool believe only an extremely significant offer would even make them consider changing their stance.

Although Gakpo endured a more difficult campaign last season compared with his previous performances, Liverpool remain confident in his ability. The forward scored nine goals during the season, a lower return than expected, but the club continues to value his overall contribution.

His strongest season since arriving at Liverpool came during the 2024-25 campaign, when he found the net 18 times across competitions and played an important role in the team’s attacking success. His ability to operate from the wing or through the middle has made him a useful option for Liverpool’s tactical plans.

Liverpool originally signed Gakpo from PSV Eindhoven in January 2022 for a fee believed to be around £44 million. Since then, he has developed into an important first-team player and has gained significant experience at both club and international level with the Netherlands.

The Reds’ determination to keep Gakpo is also linked to the changes taking place within their attacking department. Liverpool have already lost long-time star Mohamed Salah this summer, leaving a major gap in their forward line.

So far, Liverpool’s only attacking addition has been Spanish winger Víctor Muñoz, who joined from Osasuna in a deal worth approximately £34.5 million. With the club already looking to add more attacking quality, losing another established forward would go against their current transfer strategy.

Liverpool are also working on a potential deal for Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola, who is reportedly valued at around £145 million. The interest in Barcola highlights Liverpool’s intention to continue improving their attacking options rather than selling key players.

Tottenham, meanwhile, continue to explore several attacking targets as they attempt to strengthen Roberto De Zerbi’s squad. Alongside their interest in Gakpo, Spurs are reportedly monitoring Manchester City forward Omar Marmoush and remain involved in negotiations for Brazilian winger Savinho.

The north London club has already been extremely active during the transfer window, focusing on rebuilding several areas of the squad. Their recruitment strategy has included adding both experienced players and high-profile talents capable of making an immediate impact.

In defence, Tottenham have completed several important signings. Goalkeeper Martin Dubravka arrived from Burnley on a free transfer, while experienced defenders Andy Robertson and Marcos Senesi also joined without transfer fees from Liverpool and Bournemouth respectively.

Their biggest defensive investment so far has been Jan Paul van Hecke, with Spurs paying Brighton approximately £52 million for the highly rated centre-back. The move demonstrated their willingness to spend heavily on players they believe can improve the squad.

Tottenham have also strengthened their midfield significantly. They completed a major deal for Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali, spending around £100 million, while Mateus Fernandes arrived from relegated West Ham United for a reported fee of £85 million.

With such heavy spending already completed, a move for a player of Gakpo’s quality could push Tottenham’s summer expenditure close to or beyond the £300 million mark. Signing a World Cup-level forward would represent another major investment as De Zerbi looks to build a competitive team.

While Tottenham continue to look for attacking reinforcements, Liverpool are also managing interest in some of their younger players. One academy talent attracting attention is forward Keyrol Figueroa.

The 19-year-old has impressed during recent performances for Liverpool’s Under-21 side, particularly during a training camp in Slovakia. He also scored in a friendly match against Cardiff, further increasing interest in his development.

Several EFL clubs are believed to be monitoring Figueroa, with Barnsley and Salford among those showing interest in the young forward. A loan move could provide him with valuable first-team experience and help accelerate his progress.

Liverpool are also planning the next steps for defender Wellity Lucky, who recently returned from injury. The young centre-back is expected to go out on loan as part of his development, allowing him to gain regular competitive football.

Meanwhile, Cardiff City are reportedly interested in taking Liverpool left-back Calum Scanlon on loan. The move would provide another opportunity for one of Liverpool’s promising young players to gain senior experience away from Anfield.

Overall, Liverpool’s current approach shows a clear desire to maintain squad depth while continuing to develop younger talents. Despite Tottenham’s interest, Cody Gakpo remains viewed as an important part of their plans, especially after the departure of Mohamed Salah.

With the transfer market becoming increasingly expensive and competition among top clubs growing stronger, Liverpool believe keeping proven players like Gakpo is essential. Unless a remarkable offer arrives, the Dutch forward is expected to remain at Anfield as the club continues building for the future.