Ben Jacobs has shared the latest on Tottenham’s interest in Cody Gakpo, explaining why Spurs may have to wait before making any real progress in their pursuit of the Liverpool forward.
Roberto De Zerbi has made no secret of the fact that strengthening Tottenham’s attack is now the club’s priority, recently revealing that he expects at least two more signings to arrive before the transfer window closes on September 1.
Since then, Cody Gakpo has emerged as the ‘leading contender’ among Spurs’ attacking targets, according to several reports.
The Netherlands international is also believed to be open to a move to North London amid uncertainty over his role under Andoni Iraola, with Liverpool expected to strengthen in the same attacking positions this month.
However, Liverpool have no desire to sell Gakpo and will only reconsider their stance if any of his suitors meets their ‘premium’ valuation, which is believed to be around £72m.
Ben Jacobs explains what could change Liverpool’s stance on Cody Gakpo
Speaking on talkSPORT, Ben Jacobs provided an update on Tottenham’s pursuit of Cody Gakpo.
He said: “Liverpool’s preference is to keep (hold of Gakpo), that won’t change unless they add one if not two attack-minded players. Then possibly towards the middle or the end of the window… Cody Gakpo’s position could change a little bit.
“But, for now, it’s been described to me by sources as a ‘fool’s errand’ to negotiate with Liverpool for Gakpo now because they’re going to reject everything until such a point where they know one if not two players are going to come in.
“With Bradley Barcola being the top target and interest also in Ibrahim Mbaye amongst other players as well.
“And my sense is two would need to come in for Liverpool to change their stance, but Tottenham are serious about Cody Gakpo…”
Ben Jacobs also provides fresh Savinho update
Jacobs also addressed Tottenham’s pursuit of Savinho, another player Roberto De Zerbi is keen to bring to North London.
Reports over recent weeks have suggested Spurs have grown frustrated with Manchester City’s approach to negotiations, with claims that the Manchester club have altered their valuation of the Brazilian since talks first began.
Fabrizio Romano has since revealed that Savinho has submitted a transfer request after agreeing personal terms with Tottenham, while also adding that the two clubs remain ‘pretty far apart’ on valuation, which has prevented the deal from progressing.
Continuing his comments, Jacobs added: “Tottenham are serious about Cody Gakpo, and that would be in addition, according to my information, to Savinho, who Spurs are also working on.
“But before that one unlocks, it’s less about the finances and it’s more about Man City lining up a replacement.”