Maresca eyes Gakpo as City’s upgrade while Liverpool sets a price

Cody Gakpo’s potential move to Manchester City has gathered pace as Enzo Maresca seeks to rebuild a faltering attack, with the club already agreeing personal terms and entering negotiations with Liverpool over a fee that could reach up to £85 million.

Negotiations and fee expectations

City have progressed talks with the Dutch forward, confirming personal terms and a transfer sum that may climb to £85 million, while also being told Liverpool will only release him if a suitable replacement arrives.

Liverpool have already secured a £123 million agreement with Paris Saint‑Germain for Bradley Barcola, underscoring their willingness to reshuffle the wing positions.

Tottenham remain interested, meaning the market stays competitive for the 27‑year‑old.

City’s attacking gaps after Savinho and Marmoush

Manchester City lost Savinho and Omar Marmoush to Tottenham, leaving a clear vacancy on the left flank.

Tottenham eye Iliman Ndiaye as £80m swap after Gakpo walk‑away

Enzo Maresca also faces the absence of Jeremy Doku, who is sidelined with a calf injury, further stretching the attacking options.

The club therefore views Gakpo as a dual‑purpose solution, capable of bolstering both width and central threat.

Gakpo’s versatility aligns with Maresca’s habit of shifting positions during games, offering a seamless tactical adjustment.

Van Dijk pleads for Gakpo to stay as City chase £85m deal

What the contrast reveals

City’s proactive pursuit demonstrates a desire to upgrade immediately, whereas Liverpool’s stance is conditional, hinging on finding a replacement before parting with the striker.

The next step is finalising a deal, with reports suggesting City must meet Liverpool’s £60‑million to £70‑million asking price to secure the transfer.