Cody Gakpo to Tottenham? Data Behind Spurs' Reported Interest in Liverpool Forward

Spurs Eye Liverpool's Gakpo: A Move That Raises Eyebrows

Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly set their sights on Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo, according to recent reports. The Dutch international has been a key figure at Anfield since his arrival in January 2023, but with Spurs looking to bolster their attacking options, the question arises: would Gakpo be a good fit at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium?

Context: Gakpo's Time at Liverpool

Gakpo joined Liverpool from PSV Eindhoven for an initial fee of £35 million, a deal that was finalised in the winter transfer window. Since then, he has made over 100 appearances for the Reds, scoring 25 goals and providing 10 assists in all competitions. His versatility has been a hallmark, operating across the front line, including as a central striker and on both wings.

This season, Gakpo has featured regularly under Arne Slot, who took over from Jurgen Klopp. Slot has utilised him in a variety of roles, often as a left-sided forward in a 4-3-3, but also as a number ten in certain matches. His work rate and pressing have been praised, fitting Slot's high-intensity style.

Would Gakpo Fit Tottenham's System?

Tottenham, currently managed by Ange Postecoglou, play a possession-based, attacking brand of football. Postecoglou prefers a high press and fluid attacking movements, which could suit Gakpo's profile. The Dutchman is comfortable in tight spaces, has good link-up play, and is clinical in front of goal.

However, reports suggest that the interest comes from Roberto De Zerbi, who has been linked with the Tottenham job. De Zerbi's tactical approach at Brighton was renowned for its positional play and patient build-up, which could also accommodate Gakpo's skills. His ability to drift into half-spaces and create overloads would be an asset in De Zerbi's system.

Data-Driven Analysis

From a statistical standpoint, Gakpo's numbers this season are notable. He averages 1.8 shots per game, with a conversion rate of 18%, which is above the league average for wide forwards. His expected goals (xG) per 90 minutes stands at 0.42, indicating he gets into good scoring positions. Defensively, he contributes with 1.2 tackles and 0.8 interceptions per game, aligning with the pressing demands of both Postecoglou and De Zerbi.

In terms of creativity, Gakpo creates 1.5 chances per match, with an expected assists (xA) of 0.18. While not elite playmaking numbers, they suggest he can be a supplementary creator rather than the primary source.

Transfer Market Context

Gakpo is under contract at Liverpool until 2028, meaning any potential deal would require a hefty fee. Transfermarkt values him at €50 million, but Liverpool are unlikely to sell for less than double that, given his age (25) and the fact they paid a similar fee for him. Spurs would need to break their transfer record to sign him, which currently stands at the £65 million paid for Tanguy Ndombele.

Comparatively, Gakpo's output is similar to that of former Spurs forward Heung-min Son, who has been a consistent 20-goal contributor. However, Son is now 33, and Spurs need to plan for the future.

Potential Impact on Tottenham's Attack

If Gakpo were to join, he would provide competition for places with Son, Brennan Johnson, and Timo Werner. His arrival could allow Son to be rested more frequently, preserving his energy for crucial matches. Gakpo's ability to play centrally could also offer an alternative to Dominic Solanke, who has struggled with consistency.

From a Fantasy Premier League perspective, Gakpo is currently priced at £7.5 million, making him a mid-range option. If he moved to Spurs, his ownership could spike given their favourable fixtures, but his role under a new manager would be uncertain.

What's Next?

The transfer window remains open, and speculation is rife. Liverpool may be reluctant to sell a player who is integral to their squad, especially given their injury record this season. However, with the potential for a significant profit, they might be tempted to negotiate.

For Spurs, the pursuit of Gakpo signals their intent to compete at the highest level. The club have been active in recent windows, and a move for a player of Gakpo's calibre would be a statement of ambition. The coming weeks will reveal whether the paper talk develops into concrete talks.