Cody Gakpo has chosen City as his preferred destination, with the two clubs now working on a deal for the Liverpool forward.
David Ornstein of The Athletic reports that the 27-year-old had three options: stay at Liverpool, move to Tottenham or join City.
He has chosen City.
That is a significant development with the transfer deadline approaching, although an agreement between the clubs still needs to be reached.
Gakpo gives City the green light
Gakpo’s situation has developed alongside Liverpool’s move for Bradley Barcola from Paris Saint-Germain.
City’s interest is genuine, and Tottenham have also been in the picture, but Gakpo’s preference now appears clear.
That puts the focus on whether City and Liverpool can agree terms.
Gakpo joined Liverpool from PSV Eindhoven in January 2023 and has subsequently been used across the forward line, operating from the left as well as centrally.
That versatility would give Enzo Maresca another senior attacking option as City look to complete their squad before Tuesday’s deadline.
But it’s not yet a done deal.
Gakpo choosing City does not mean the transfer is done. There is no suggestion that Liverpool have accepted an offer, with the clubs still needing to reach an agreement.
But the player’s decision removes one potential obstacle.
With Gakpo favouring a move to the Etihad, City now know they have the player if they can strike a deal with Liverpool.
For more info on this and other City transfer deals and rumours, please check out our live transfer tracker.
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