Cody Gakpo is expected to stay at Liverpool after a proposed deadline-day switch to Manchester City collapsed before Tuesday’s transfer window closed.
City had struck an agreement with Liverpool on a package worth roughly £80 million, with £75m of that figure guaranteed, but the deal was always contingent on the Reds bringing in another forward.
Liverpool refused to approve Gakpo’s exit until a suitable replacement was secured, even after finalising the £123m signing of Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola on Monday.
Liverpool fail to land attacking target
The Premier League champions also pursued Crystal Palace winger Ismaila Sarr, but their efforts ultimately failed to produce an agreement.
After seeing an opening £50m bid turned down, Liverpool returned with an improved offer on Monday. Palace, though, held firm on their stance and were unwilling to sell the Senegal international unless their asking price was met.
The Reds also failed in their pursuit of Brighton winger Yankuba Minteh after a reported £60m bid was rejected.
With neither deal progressing, Liverpool decided against allowing Gakpo to leave.
The 27-year-old had attracted interest from both City and Tottenham, with the Dutchman reportedly agreeing personal terms with both clubs.
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However, Gakpo was also comfortable remaining at Anfield after joining Liverpool from PSV Eindhoven in 2023.
Gakpo could switch to right wing
Barcola’s arrival has strengthened Liverpool’s options on the left, potentially allowing manager Andoni Iraola to use Gakpo on the opposite flank.
The Dutchman has already demonstrated his ability to operate from the right, providing the assist for Alexander Isak’s equaliser in Liverpool’s 2-2 draw with Nottingham Forest.
Gakpo could therefore help fill the attacking void created by Mohamed Salah’s departure, while young winger Rio Ngumoha has struggled to make the same impact from the right as he has on his preferred left side.
City have now turned their attention elsewhere, with Everton’s Iliman Ndiaye emerging as a possible target.
The Manchester club are also monitoring Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez, although Chelsea are reportedly demanding around £120m for the Argentina international.
For now, Gakpo’s expected departure has been shelved, with Liverpool retaining a versatile forward who could take on a different role following Barcola’s arrival.