Manchester City’s proposed £80m move for Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo is close to collapsing, with the Anfield club reluctant to sanction his departure without first securing another attacking replacement.
City opened talks with Liverpool over the Netherlands international late in the transfer window. The deal had appeared to be progressing, but Liverpool’s position has hardened after they completed the signing of Bradley Barcola from Paris St-Germain on Monday in a package worth up to £123m.
The arrival of Barcola has not removed the need for further attacking reinforcements. Liverpool are understood to want another wide player before allowing Gakpo to leave, particularly with the transfer deadline falling on Tuesday, 1 September.
The Reds have explored moves for Brighton winger Yankuba Minteh and Crystal Palace forward Ismaila Sarr, but negotiations have been complicated by the valuations placed on both players. Brighton are reported to be seeking about £80m for Minteh, while Palace have also set a substantial price for Sarr.
Unless Liverpool can revive one of those deals, Gakpo is now expected to remain at the club. Sky Sports News reported that discussions over personal terms had been taking place, but the late timing of City’s approach has left Liverpool weighing whether they can afford to lose another attacking option.
Gakpo’s preference is understood to be a move to Manchester City rather than Tottenham, who had also shown interest in the 27-year-old. However, Liverpool’s requirement for a replacement means there is still a major obstacle to completing the transfer before the deadline.
City could instead return to their interest in Everton forward Iliman Ndiaye. The Senegal international had been expected to join Tottenham, but that move remains unresolved and Manchester City have renewed their interest as uncertainty grows over the Gakpo deal.
