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

Tottenham are keen on a move for Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo as Roberto de Zerbi continues reshaping his squad.

Any deal would be far from straightforward. Liverpool are reluctant to weaken their attacking options, particularly after Mohamed Salah’s departure and with Hugo Ekitike still recovering from an Achilles injury.

The Reds are themselves pursuing Paris St-Germain winger Bradley Barcola but, even if he arrived, Liverpool would be losing one of their most experienced attackers.

So why are Spurs interested? And what do the numbers suggest Gakpo would bring to De Zerbi’s side?

On the surface, Gakpo looks like another left winger. In reality, he offers considerably more tactical flexibility.

Although he has played most of his football for Liverpool from the left, the Netherlands international has regularly been used as a central striker, false nine and second forward. De Zerbi reportedly views him as someone capable of operating through the middle, dropping between the lines to link play before releasing runners beyond him.

That profile fits the Italian’s football. Instead of relying on a traditional penalty-box striker, De Zerbi often asks his centre forward to vacate central spaces, combine with midfielders and create room for wide players to attack. Gakpo possesses the technical quality, close control and positional intelligence to perform that role while also providing cover on the left.

His versatility would also offer Tottenham valuable insurance across multiple positions. Dominic Solanke and Mathys Tel are both natural central forwards, but neither provide the same ability to move seamlessly between the wing and the middle.

Gakpo’s 2025-26 campaign divided opinion among Liverpool supporters, with seven Premier League goals representing his lowest return in a full season at Anfield.

The underlying data, however, paints a far more encouraging picture. Though Liverpool struggled collectively, Gakpo actually remained one of Europe’s most dangerous wide forwards in terms of finding scoring opportunities. Only seven wingers across Europe’s top five leagues averaged more touches in the opposition penalty area than his 2.2 per 90 minutes, while he also ranked inside the top 10 for both open-play shots and chances created.

His player comparison profile reinforces those strengths. Compared with positional peers across Europe’s top five leagues, Gakpo ranked in the 98th percentile for shot frequency, the 96th percentile for advanced involvement and the 91st percentile for box threat. In other words, very few wide players became involved in dangerous attacking situations more regularly.

Those numbers are driven by his willingness to attack space behind defences. Gakpo was caught offside 30 times in the Premier League last season, more than any other player, illustrating how often he looked to run beyond the last defender in search of goalscoring opportunities, as opposed to simply receiving the ball to feet.

At his best, Gakpo regularly attacks the back post, times his runs into the penalty area intelligently and arrives centrally despite starting from the left flank. And, while he endured a difficult season last term, he scored regularly for Liverpool as the Reds won the title in 2024-25, with 18 goals in all competitions.

The comparison with Tottenham’s existing attackers helps explain the interest.

Gakpo finished last season with a higher expected-goals total (8.59), more shots (87), more assists (five) and more big chances created (10) than any of Spurs’ forward options, despite playing in a Liverpool side whose Premier League title defence ended with a fifth-place finish.

Richarlison scored more league goals, but attempted 26 fewer shots and created only half as many big chances. Solanke, limited by injury, produced just 20 shots and one big chance created, while Tel also fell short across several of the key attacking measures. Randal Kolo Muani, who spent last season on loan at Spurs before joining Juventus this summer, likewise trailed Gakpo’s output.

The contrast extends beyond goals and shooting. Gakpo recorded 187 touches in the opposition penalty area, compared with 125 for Richarlison, 68 for Tel and 55 for Solanke. His 4.17 expected assists from open play was also comfortably the highest figure among the four, underlining his ability to create chances as well as find scoring positions himself.

He offers defensive value too. Gakpo regained possession 87 times, including 45 in the middle third, and made 13 interceptions. All three totals were higher than those recorded by Richarlison, Tel and Solanke. Tel completed more dribbles, with 39 to Gakpo’s 34, although Gakpo posted the slightly better success rate at 45.95%.

His broader profile reflects that breadth. Gakpo ranks in the 78th percentile for link-up play, the 75th for pass progression and the 67th for creative threat, illustrating his comfort combining in tight spaces and contributing to build-up play.

At 6ft 4in, he also provides a physical presence uncommon among wide forwards. Gakpo ranks in the 96th percentile for aerial volume compared with positional peers across Europe’s top five leagues, meaning only about 4% of wingers contest aerial balls at a higher rate. That would give De Zerbi another route against deep defensive blocks, through diagonal passes, back-post crosses or more direct balls when opponents restrict Spurs’ build-up play.

Those attributes also explain why Liverpool are not actively looking to move him on.

Despite frustration surrounding his performances at times last season, Gakpo remains one of the squad’s few established forwards. Losing both him and Salah during the same transfer window would significantly reduce Liverpool’s attacking depth, particularly while Ekitike works his way back from injury. Even if the Reds complete a move for Barcola, much would still rest on the shoulders of newcomer Victor Munoz and highly rated 17-year-old Rio Ngumoha, making Gakpo’s proven quality and range difficult to replace.

The Reds also know Gakpo has consistently delivered in the Premier League.

Since arriving from PSV Eindhoven in January 2023, Gakpo has scored seven, eight, 10 and seven league goals across his four seasons at Anfield while adding regular creative contributions. Since November 2024, only Salah has scored more Premier League goals for Liverpool than Gakpo’s 17, while only Salah and Dominik Szoboszlai have registered more intentional assists than his five. His output has remained remarkably consistent despite playing under different managers and in multiple attacking roles.

For Tottenham, that combination of reliability and multi-positional value is precisely the attraction. While seven league goals last season may not immediately stand out, the underlying metrics tell a different story. Gakpo continues to generate chances at an elite rate, gets into dangerous positions more frequently than almost any winger in Europe and offers tactical flexibility few forwards can match.

Whether Tottenham can persuade Liverpool to part with one of their most seasoned attackers remains to be seen. But if De Zerbi is looking for someone capable of playing across the front line while consistently threatening the opposition goal, the data offers a compelling explanation for Spurs’ interest.

Barcelona? Real Madrid? Man City's Rodri has a decision to make

Rodri was named player of the tournament after captaining Spain to World Cup glory in the summer

Manchester City midfielder Rodri may have a huge decision to make this summer on whether to join La Liga giants Real Madrid or Barcelona - should he decide to leave Etihad Stadium.

The 30-year-old is into the final year of his deal at City and is yet to sign fresh terms.

Real have held a long-term interest in signing the player, but sources at Barcelona said on Thursday that the club now had the player’s approval to open negotiations with Manchester City.

Barcelona sources said there were no guarantees any deal would be made but that it was a key development.

Rodri missed much of the 2024-25 campaign after sustaining a serious knee injury, and parts of last season were disrupted by a hamstring issue.

However, the 2024 Ballon d’Or winner was back to his best at the World Cup in the summer, leading Spain to their second title and being named player of the tournament.

Rodri said earlier this season his future would be sorted out after the tournament, but he is currently out of action after undergoing back surgery.

City are currently on a pre-season tour in the Far East and face Arsenal in the Community Shield next Sunday, but Rodri is yet to link up with his team-mates.

Once he does return, does he sign the deal that is on offer from City, see out the final months of his contract and become a free agent next summer or take up the prospect of a return to his homeland?

City sources have previously told BBC Sport they are “counting on” the player for next season, while a significant fee would need to be offered to even consider a sale.

A move to Barca would allow Rodri to join the title winners for the past two seasons and unite with national team-mates Ferran Torres, Lamine Yamal, Pau Cubarsi and Pedri.

However, he could also enjoy a quick reunion with ex-City team-mate Bernardo Silva, who joined Real - now managed by the returning Jose Mourinho - on a free transfer this summer.

Rodri might not receive a universally positive reception if he joins Barca.

He played for Atletico Madrid in the past and having previously said “you can’t turn down the best clubs in the world” with regards to Real, the reception at the Nou Camp could be interesting if he ended up there instead.

Rodri has won four Premier League titles, the Champions League and two FA Cups since joining City in 2019 and has established himself as being not only integral to the side, but as one of the best midfielders in the world.

Having already lost Silva this summer, losing Rodri would be a significant blow and would require one of Mateo Kovacic, Nico Gonzalez or Tijjani Reijnders to step up, with all three featuring in pre-season so far.

Club record signing Elliot Anderson is set to be a starter, so there would be a big hole to fill alongside the England international.

City remain in talks to sign 18-year-old midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi from Lille, but it would be a big ask for the Moroccan teenager to fill such esteemed boots.

'Show me they want me' - will World Cup hero Torres stay at Barcelona?

Ferran Torres has made 207 appearances for Barcelona since signing from Manchester City in 2022 but 94 (45%) have been as a substitute

Ferran Torres will return to Barcelona later this month having cemented his name in the country’s football folklore following his extra-time winner to seal Spain’s second World Cup triumph.

His profile and marketability has significantly grown and those around him will be keen to ensure he makes the most of a career-defining moment.

But a summer dominated by World Cup celebrations has given way to transfer speculation, fuelled by the forward’s own comments during a media tour in the United States.

The 26-year-old is under contract with Barcelona until June 2027 meaning, if he does not reach an agreement with the Catalan giants, Torres will be able to negotiate with another club as a free agent from January.

So, as Barcelona’s players gradually report back for pre-season, does Spain’s World Cup hero’s future remain at the Nou Camp?

The uncertainty surrounding Torres’ future has intensified following a series of high-profile television appearances in the United States for a promotional tour with his sportswear sponsor.

Asked where he expected to be playing next season, Torres replied: “I have a contract with Barcelona but, in football, you never know. We are waiting to make the right decision. Right now, all I know is that I have to be in training for Barcelona on 12 August. Let’s see what happens.”

Asked what Barcelona need to do to keep him, he said: “Show me they want me, come to negotiate.”

Reflecting on his winner against Argentina in the World Cup final, he added: “I’ve watched it thousands of times. When I finished the game, I didn’t remember the goal. It was unbelievable. I can’t describe it with words.”

The speculation only increased when he was asked directly about reported interest from Paris St-Germain.

“Every time these teams want you it’s a good thing,” Torres said. “You never know because in football everything can change in one minute, so I have to be ready for everything.”

Asked how he would approach such a career-defining decision, Torres replied: “Trying to think what is going to make me happiest.”

Torres’ comments have frustrated many Barcelona supporters, who believe he has been too open about the possibility of leaving the club and attempting to strengthen his negotiating position.

Fans have also taken issue with what they see as his carefully chosen wording when discussing interest from other teams, particularly given that he has never established himself as a regular starter or consistently lived up to expectations since joining Barcelona from Manchester City in 2022.

Torres’ tour of the US included throwing the ceremonial first pitch before the New York Yankees’ game against St Louis Cardinals

Barcelona remain relaxed about Torres’ situation despite the growing uncertainty surrounding his future. They say they will speak to him when he returns to training, as planned.

He was not a regular starter under Hansi Flick last season and ended the campaign with 21 goals and three assists in 49 appearances.

But he is one of the club’s most trusted and versatile attacking options, rotating primarily with Robert Lewandowski - who has since signed for Chicago Fire - as a central striker while also providing cover across the front three.

Barcelona are ultimately keen to extend his contract but any new agreement is expected to keep Torres within the existing wage structure rather than include a substantial salary increase.

Reports suggest the club would look to delay formal negotiations until September - after the transfer window has closed - so as not to affect Financial Fair Play calculations and their ability to do business during the current window.

Renewing Torres’ deal would also reportedly trigger a payment of almost £7m to former club Manchester City, because of a clause included in his contract when he signed in the 2022 January transfer window.

Barcelona have received no formal offers for the Spain international although, as with any member of the squad, they would consider an offer if one were made.

PSG, managed by former Barcelona coach Luis Enrique, remain interested in the forward and are monitoring developments closely as Barcelona prepare to present their proposal.

The forward may feel he heads into those negotiations from a position of strength.

They come with the club still seeking a long-term number nine solution, with a move for Atletico Madrid’s Julian Alvarez remaining uncertain.

That means, following Lewandowski’s departure at the end of his contract in June, Torres is the only senior Barcelona forward with significant experience of playing as a central striker.

Arsenal set to sign Newcastle captain Guimaraes

Bruno Guimaraes has appeared 48 times for Brazil

Arsenal are set to complete their protracted move for Newcastle United captain Bruno Guimaraes.

BBC Sport reported on 30 July that Guimaraes was expected to move to the Premier League champions following a breakthrough in talks.

And a full agreement is now almost done, with Guimaraes waiting for permission to leave Newcastle’s training base in La Manga, in Spain, to finalise the formalities of his move to Emirates Stadium.

The Gunners are now making preparations for the Brazil midfielder’s medical this week. There is no confirmation of a fee but sources are indicating it could reach £80m.

Guimaraes, who joined Newcastle from Lyon in 2022, has made clear his intention to join Arsenal as the 28-year-old has emerged as Mikel Arteta’s first-choice central midfield target.

Newcastle and Arsenal have been discussing the finer terms of the deal this week with a final agreement now considered a formality.

Chelsea nearing £16.3m deal for Rayo defender Chavarria

Chelsea are closing in on an agreement with Rayo Vallecano for defender Pep Chavarria.

The Blues, who have already agreed personal terms with the 28-year-old, are finalising a move worth about £16.3m plus further add-ons, with all parties increasingly confident about striking a deal.

Left-back Chavarria is a key target for new manager Xabi Alonso having faced him while he was in charge of Real Madrid last season.

It has been almost a month since Chelsea had an initial £15m bid rejected by the La Liga club when talks began at the end of June.

Negotiations became protracted amid a belief at Chelsea that Rayo were raising their valuation during the process, asking as much as the full £42.8m release clause at one stage.

Chavarria made it clear to Rayo, who lost to Crystal Palace in the Conference League final in May, that he wanted to move to Stamford Bridge.

Alongside new right-back Marco Palestra, who joined Chelsea for £47m from Atalanta in July, Chavarria’s arrival would give Alonso the chance to replicate his wing-back system that helped Bayer Leverkusen win the Bundesliga title in 2024.

His signing also adds depth to the left-back position after Marc Cucurella joined Real Madrid in June for £51.8m.

It is also another player with experience added to the squad, along with the signings of striker Danny Welbeck, 35, from Brighton and Jordan Henderson, 36, after he cancelled his contract with Brentford.

Chelsea have also signed club-record £117m forward Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa and defender Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace for £52m, with midfielder Valentin Barco expected to join from partner club Strasbourg imminently.

They are expected to focus on player sales in the coming weeks having reached an agreement to sell Trevoh Chalobah to Italian club Como 1907 for about £31m.