Liverpool star to be subject of record £73.5m bid | OneFootball

Tottenham ready club-record move as Gakpo emerges as major De Zerbi target

Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly preparing to break their transfer record in an ambitious attempt to sign Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo, with new manager Roberto De Zerbi said to be driving the move as he shapes his squad for the season ahead.

According to reports carried by Football365, Spurs are considering a bid worth around £73.5 million for Gakpo, a fee that would eclipse the club’s current transfer record and underline the scale of De Zerbi’s ambitions in north London.

The Dutch international has become one of the most talked-about names of the summer window following growing speculation surrounding his future at Liverpool. Reports from the Netherlands have suggested the attacker is unsettled following significant changes behind the scenes, while claims have emerged that he wishes to leave the club.

For Tottenham, the opportunity to secure a player of Gakpo’s quality and versatility is viewed as one that could accelerate De Zerbi’s rebuilding project.

De Zerbi shaping Tottenham’s new identity

After consecutive seasons that fell well below expectations, Tottenham are moving aggressively in the market. The arrivals of experienced figures and the pursuit of several high-profile targets suggest the club are determined to provide De Zerbi with the tools required to implement his vision.

Gakpo appears to fit that vision perfectly.

The Liverpool forward has demonstrated throughout his Premier League career that he can operate across the front line. Comfortable on the left wing, effective through the middle and capable of linking play between midfield and attack, he offers the tactical flexibility modern coaches crave.

Reports indicate De Zerbi’s admiration for the player is long-standing rather than reactionary. As cited by the original source, the Italian coach has been monitoring Gakpo for some time and believes he possesses the qualities needed to become a key figure in Tottenham’s attack.

The report states: “Roberto De Zerbi has been following Cody Gakpo for some time. This isn’t a spur-of-the-moment interest or a last-minute alternative.”

That level of commitment from the manager may prove significant if Spurs decide to push ahead with negotiations.

Gakpo qualities appeal to Tottenham hierarchy

What makes Gakpo such an attractive target is the breadth of his skill set.

Standing out for his physical presence, intelligent movement and finishing ability, he combines traditional attacking strengths with the technical qualities required in possession-based systems.

The report highlights exactly why De Zerbi values him so highly, stating: “The Italian manager values his power, his striking ability, his reading of the game to attack space, and his capacity to link up with attacking midfielders and full-backs.”

Those attributes have been evident throughout Gakpo’s time in England. While often deployed from the left, he has shown an ability to drift centrally, create overloads and contribute goals in a variety of situations.

For a Tottenham side seeking greater fluidity in the final third, his arrival would represent a major statement.

Liverpool face significant transfer decision

Liverpool’s stance will ultimately determine whether a deal is possible.

Gakpo remains an important member of the squad and is among the club’s higher earners. However, reports suggest Liverpool would be willing to consider substantial offers should serious interest materialise.

The proposed £73.5 million package would certainly command attention.

The report notes that Liverpool are aware of the player’s continued market value, his proven Premier League pedigree and the fact he remains in his prime years. As a result, any potential buyer would need to present a compelling offer from the outset.

That reality explains Tottenham’s reported desire to move decisively rather than become involved in a prolonged transfer saga.

Record-breaking move could define summer window

Should Tottenham proceed with an offer in the region of £73.5 million, it would surpass the fee paid for Dominic Solanke and establish Gakpo as the most expensive signing in the club’s history.

It would also signal the strongest indication yet that De Zerbi intends to transform Tottenham into a side capable of challenging far higher up the table.

Whether Liverpool are prepared to sanction such a departure remains uncertain, but the growing volume of reports linking Gakpo with a move away means this is a story unlikely to disappear any time soon.

For now, Tottenham appear ready to test Liverpool’s resolve, while Gakpo’s future remains one of the most intriguing subplots of the transfer window.