Fabrizio Romano: Liverpool star in ‘direct talks’ with Premier League rivals | OneFootball

Cody Gakpo to Tottenham? Liverpool Face a Clear Squad Decision as Spurs Open Talks

Tottenham are making a move for Cody Gakpo, and the key point is simple. Liverpool may finally have a decision to make.

According to Fabrizio Romano on X, “Tottenham are in direct talks with Cody Gakpo’s camp over possible move this summer, after approaches revealed in July. Deal depends on Liverpool decision; doors closed back in July but now could depend on financial package/Barcola pursuit. #THFC are trying.” That tells you almost everything. Spurs are pushing, Gakpo’s side are listening, and Liverpool are no longer being painted as completely immovable.

This is where the discussion becomes practical rather than emotional. Gakpo is a good player, useful across the front line, and proven at a high level. That does not automatically make him untouchable. Liverpool under Andoni Iraola are still shaping the attack after a summer of major change, and if Bradley Barcola remains a serious target, then any major offer for Gakpo becomes part of a wider equation.

Tottenham transfer interest changes the picture

Tottenham’s interest matters because they are unlikely to test Liverpool with a token bid. If they are in direct talks, they believe there is a route. That route probably starts with a substantial financial package. Liverpool do not need to sell for the sake of it, but they may sell if the money helps fund another attacking profile they value more highly.

That is where Barcola comes in. If Liverpool are still pursuing the PSG winger, then Gakpo’s future becomes linked to recruitment strategy. Clubs at this level do not look at these deals in isolation. They balance squad roles, resale value, age profile, tactical fit and, bluntly, cost.

Liverpool squad depth remains the real issue

The bigger concern is not whether Gakpo can be replaced on the flank. Liverpool have options there, and more may arrive. The real problem is central cover.

Alexander Isak is now the headline striker, and his quality is obvious. So is the risk. If Liverpool sanction a Gakpo sale while still lacking dependable back-up through the middle, then they are creating a problem unnecessarily. Wide attackers can be shuffled around on paper. Reliable central forwards are much harder to find.

If the plan is to add creators and runners around Isak, fine. But that only works if there is another genuine centre-forward in the squad. Otherwise, one injury changes the whole complexion of the season.

Barcola pursuit could decide Gakpo future

This is why the Gakpo situation feels conditional rather than advanced. Tottenham want the player, the player’s camp are clearly open to hearing the pitch, and Liverpool are weighing the broader market. If Barcola moves closer, the chances of a deal likely rise. If not, Liverpool may decide that keeping Gakpo is the safer and smarter call.

For now, that is the story. Spurs are trying. Liverpool are thinking. And the final call will depend less on sentiment, and more on whether the squad looks stronger after the money is banked and the next deal is done.

Our View

From a Liverpool supporter’s perspective, this report feels awkward because Gakpo sits in that category of player you may not build the whole attack around, but you absolutely notice when he is not there. He gives you flexibility, goals, and experience. Selling him to Tottenham, of all clubs, would need to make obvious sense.

The uncertainty comes from the wider squad picture. If Barcola arrives and another central option follows, then you can understand the logic. Liverpool cannot hoard attackers forever, and if Spurs are willing to pay a serious fee, that has to be considered. Football clubs are supposed to make hard decisions, not sentimental ones.

But there is still a nagging doubt. Isak is elite, but relying too heavily on him feels risky. If Gakpo goes and Liverpool do not bring in proper cover through the middle, fans will be entitled to question the planning. Versatility is useful, but specialists still matter.

So the feeling here is uncertain rather than hostile. If this is part of a clear strategy, fine. If it is a sale made because the offer is attractive without the replacement work already lined up, then it looks careless. Liverpool can sell Gakpo, but only if the attack comes out of the window stronger, deeper and more balanced than it is now.