Manchester City have identified Cody Gakpo as a transfer target, but Liverpool are firmly opposed to selling the Dutch forward, who is contracted at Anfield until 2030.

City are actively seeking to strengthen their attack after losing Savinho to Tottenham Hotspur in a deal worth up to £85m — a move that included Savinho undergoing a medical last week. A potential departure of Omar Marmoush to Spurs could further thin City's attacking options, driving the urgency behind their interest in Gakpo.

Despite the links, no club-to-club discussions have taken place between Manchester City and Liverpool at this stage. Liverpool's position is clear: they do not want to part with Gakpo and would need to secure at least two wide forwards before even considering any departure.

Gakpo off to a strong start

The 27-year-old made his case for his importance in Liverpool's Premier League opener, starting and scoring against Newcastle United last weekend. His form underlines why Liverpool are reluctant to open negotiations.

Liverpool have been pursuing reinforcements of their own on the flanks, chasing PSG pair Bradley Barcola and Ibrahim Mbaye. They have also had several bids turned down for Brighton & Hove Albion winger Yankuba Minteh.

Allan to fill Savinho's boots at City

Manchester City have moved swiftly to address the void left by Savinho's impending exit. The club have reached a verbal agreement with Palmeiras to sign fellow Brazilian winger Allan for a fee of up to £34m — structured as a £32m fixed payment plus £2m in performance-related add-ons.

Both clubs are yet to exchange formal documentation, but Allan will be cleared to travel for a medical once that process is completed to the satisfaction of both parties. The 22-year-old is viewed as Savinho's direct replacement at the Etihad.

Meanwhile, Marmoush was named among City's substitutes for their Premier League opener against Bournemouth but did not feature, with his future at the club still uncertain pending a potential move to Spurs.