Cody Gakpo is set to remain at Liverpool after his proposed move to Manchester City fell through ahead of Tuesday’s transfer deadline.
City had reached an agreement with Liverpool over a deal worth around £80 million, including £75m in guaranteed payments, but the transfer depended on the Reds securing another attacking player.
Liverpool were unwilling to sanction Gakpo’s departure without first finding a suitable replacement, despite completing the £123m signing of Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola on Monday.
Liverpool fail to land attacking target
The Premier League champions had made efforts to sign Crystal Palace winger Ismaila Sarr but could not reach an agreement.
Liverpool saw an initial £50m offer rejected and returned with an improved proposal on Monday. Palace, however, remained determined to keep the Senegal international unless their valuation 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.
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.
