Cody Gakpo has reportedly decided to join Manchester City, with negotiations between the Premier League rivals advancing rapidly as Liverpool prepare for a potentially significant late change to their attacking options.

The 27-year-old Netherlands international faced a three-way decision after Liverpool completed the signing of Bradley Barcola, with the choice reportedly coming down to remaining at Anfield, moving to Tottenham Hotspur or accepting a switch to Manchester City.

Gakpo has now chosen City, according to reports from The Athletic, and personal terms have already been agreed with Pep Guardiola’s side. The clubs are in contact over a transfer fee, although Liverpool are understood to be unwilling to sanction the move until they secure another winger.

Cody Gakpo decides on Manchester City move

Cody Gakpo situation has developed quickly, with Manchester City emerging as the Dutch forward’s preferred destination.

City’s interest comes at a time when Liverpool’s attacking options are undergoing considerable change. The arrival of Barcola has created greater competition for places, particularly on the left side of the attack where Gakpo has often been deployed.

Rather than simply accepting a reduced role at Anfield, Gakpo appears ready to pursue a new challenge at the Etihad Stadium.

Personal terms between the player and Manchester City have reportedly been agreed, meaning negotiations can now focus on the clubs reaching a final transfer agreement.

The development represents a major step forward, although the deal is not yet complete.

Liverpool are prepared to sell Gakpo, but they want to ensure they have sufficient attacking depth before allowing one of their established forwards to leave.

That condition could become the most important factor in determining how quickly the transfer progresses.

Liverpool want a replacement before selling Cody Gakpo

The Cody Gakpo transfer situation is closely connected to Liverpool’s pursuit of another winger.

The Reds have already completed the blockbuster signing of Barcola from Paris Saint-Germain, but they are still exploring options on the right side of their attack.

Liverpool have previously shown interest in Brighton’s Yankuba Minteh and Crystal Palace’s Ismaila Sarr, although neither pursuit has yet provided the club with the replacement required to comfortably sanction Gakpo’s departure.

That explains why negotiations with Manchester City are continuing rather than immediately producing a completed deal.

Liverpool are effectively balancing two objectives: allowing Gakpo to leave for his preferred destination while ensuring their squad does not become short of attacking options.

With the transfer deadline approaching, the timing of any replacement signing could therefore determine whether the City move becomes reality.

Why Gakpo is considering an Anfield exit

Gakpo’s potential departure would mark another major change to Liverpool’s forward line.

The Dutchman joined Liverpool from PSV Eindhoven in January 2023 and gradually established himself as an important member of the squad. His ability to operate as a winger or through the centre has made him particularly valuable to the Reds.

However, the arrival of Barcola changes the competitive landscape.

The French forward’s versatility and preference for playing from the left could significantly increase competition for Gakpo’s regular position, making his long-term prospects at Anfield less certain.

Gakpo reportedly had three options available to him: stay and fight for his place, move to Tottenham or join Manchester City.

He has now chosen City.

For the player, the opportunity to remain at the highest level while joining another Premier League heavyweight could be particularly attractive.

Manchester City see Gakpo as valuable attacking option

Manchester City, meanwhile, would be acquiring a forward capable of providing tactical flexibility.

Gakpo can operate from the left wing, move centrally and contribute to build-up play, giving City’s attack another versatile option.

His physical profile and ability to carry the ball could also suit Guardiola’s approach, while his experience in the Premier League means he would not require an extended adaptation period.

The proposed transfer would also add another established attacking player to City’s squad as they look to compete across domestic and European competitions.

However, the final agreement between the clubs remains crucial.

Personal terms being settled is significant, but Liverpool still need to agree on the financial package with City before the transfer can be completed.

Tottenham miss out as City move ahead

Tottenham were reportedly another option for Gakpo, but the forward’s decision has now placed Manchester City firmly in pole position.

That represents a disappointment for Spurs, who could have added a proven Premier League attacker to their squad.

Instead, Gakpo appears determined to make the move to Manchester.

The biggest obstacle is therefore no longer the player’s preference. It is Liverpool’s requirement to find a replacement.

If the Reds complete another winger signing, the path could be cleared for Gakpo to leave.

The situation could consequently develop rapidly during the final stages of the transfer window.

A dramatic end to Gakpo’s Liverpool chapter?

The Cody Gakpo story has taken an unexpected turn after more than three years at Liverpool.

What initially appeared to be a question of squad competition has now developed into a potential transfer between two of England’s biggest clubs.

Gakpo has reportedly made his decision, Manchester City have agreed personal terms with him and Liverpool are willing to sell.

All that remains is for the clubs to settle the transfer fee and for Liverpool to secure the attacking reinforcement they want before sanctioning the departure.

If those conditions are met, Cody Gakpo could soon be wearing Manchester City’s colors, bringing one of the transfer window’s most intriguing Premier League moves to a dramatic conclusion.