A wanted man - but would Liverpool's Gakpo be a good fit at Spurs?

Tottenham Hotspur have shown interest in Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo, given their desire to reshape their squad following Mohamed Salah's departure. However, Liverpool is hesitant to weaken their attacking options, especially with Hugo Ekitike still recovering from an Achilles injury. Liverpool is also pursuing Paris St-Germain winger Bradley Barcola, but even if he arrives, the club would lose one of its most experienced attackers.

Gakpo, a Dutch international, is versatile and can play as a left winger, central striker, false nine, or second forward. He offers tactical flexibility, which aligns with Roberto De Zerbi's playing style. Unlike typical penalty-box strikers, De Zerbi often asks his centre forward to combine with midfielders and create room for wide players. Gakpo's technical quality, close control, and positional intelligence make him suitable for this role while providing cover on the left flank.

In 2025-26, Gakpo's performances were mixed, with seven Premier League goals at his lowest return in a full season at Anfield. However, his underlying data reveals a more positive picture. Gakpo was among Europe's most dangerous wide forwards in terms of finding scoring opportunities, with seven wingers across the top five leagues averaging more touches in the penalty area than his 2.2 per 90 minutes.

He also ranked in the top 10 for open-play shots and chances created. His willingness to attack space behind defenses sets him apart, as he was caught offside 30 times last season, more than any other player. When he's at his best, Gakpo runs into the penalty area intelligently and arrives centrally despite starting from the left flank.