Liverpool’s right‑wing void drives Gakpo’s stay after failed bids

The Wantaway Liverpool star faces a crucial test as the club scrambles to replace a departing right‑winger. Cody Gakpo has reportedly held talks to ‘clear the air’ at Anfield after his summer move to north London collapsed, with both Tottenham and Manchester City having offered around one hundred million euros.

Tottenham’s early pursuit under De Zerbi

Tottenham were the first club to show serious interest, hoping to reshape their attack under Roberto De Zerbi. The north London side saw Gakpo as the ideal left‑footed right‑winger to complement their front line. However, the window closed before any agreement could be finalised.

Manchester City bid and Liverpool’s fallback

Fabrizio Romano revealed that Gakpo had agreed terms with Manchester City on Saturday, with the club reportedly ready to meet the €100 million package. A £75m plus £5m bid was rejected by Liverpool, Athletic’s David Ornstein. Liverpool’s decision hinged on the unresolved situations of Ismaila Sarr and Yankuba Minteh.

With the failure to secure Sarr from Crystal Palace and Minteh from Brighton, Liverpool chose to retain Gakpo on Monday. The club informed his camp that they would keep him if no suitable replacement arrived, leaving the Dutch international to consider his future.

Liverpool pay £123m for Barcola as they chase a reliable winger

Dagblad reported that Gakpo spoke with Liverpool’s owners yesterday, partly to clear the air after the surprise collapse of his transfer. The discussion underscored the player’s desire for clarity amid the stalled move. Former defender Jamie Carragher criticised Liverpool’s window, saying, “I think it’s been OK.” The main thing was to improve in the wide areas and they brought two wingers in. The real star is Barcola, and you talk about replacing Mo Salah, but it’s on the opposite flank.” He added that the squad lacks a genuine right‑sided attacker and is short in full‑back and midfield areas.

Carragher’s assessment highlights the club’s ongoing dilemma on the right wing. While Gakpo remains, Liverpool still need a left‑footed option to Mo Salah’s threat and additional depth at full‑back.

Liverpool ends the drought as Barcola struggles to establish itself

Manchester City have now turned their attention to signing Enzo Fernandez from Chelsea, signalling that their pursuit of Gakpo is over for the moment. Liverpool must still address the right‑wing vacancy before the new season begins.