Manchester City’s proposed £80m move for Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo is close to collapsing as the transfer deadline approaches.
City had opened talks with Liverpool over a deal for the Netherlands international, with the Reds prepared to sell Gakpo if they could secure a suitable replacement.
Liverpool strengthened their attack on Monday by completing the signing of France forward Bradley Barcola from Paris Saint-Germain in a deal worth up to £123m. However, the Anfield club would still want to add another attacking player before allowing Gakpo to leave.
The Premier League champions had explored moves for Brighton winger Yankuba Minteh and Crystal Palace forward Ismaila Sarr, but the valuations of both players have proved problematic.
Liverpool are now expected to keep the 27-year-old Gakpo unless they can revive a deal for another winger before Tuesday’s transfer deadline.
The development could force Manchester City to turn their attention elsewhere, with Everton forward Iliman Ndiaye among their alternative targets.
Ndiaye, 26, had been expected to join Tottenham, but City’s continued interest could now see the Etihad club step up their pursuit of the Senegal international following the latest setback in negotiations for Gakpo.
With the deadline fast approaching, City must now decide whether to make another attempt to secure Gakpo or accelerate their move for Ndiaye.
