Tottenham Hotspur are said to be intensifying their pursuit of Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo. This follows Spurs manager Roberto De Zerbi teasing a 'bomba' in reference to a major announcement.
Gakpo featured in 36 Premier League matches for the Reds last term, netting seven goals during a challenging campaign for Arne Slot's side. Liverpool ended the season fifth in their attempt to defend the Premier League crown - falling short of silverware while disappointing fans with predictable tactics.
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Netherlands international Gakpo was among those who faced fierce scrutiny for lacking creativity going forward. The 27-year-old found himself competing for a place in the starting XI with teenage sensation Rio Ngumoha as the season drew to a close.
New manager Andoni Iraola has already brought in one fresh wide player to Anfield this summer through Spanish World Cup winner Victor Munoz. This has fuelled growing suggestions that Gakpo may depart.
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Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has now stated Spurs intend to move for the Dutchman, with discussions expected to reach crucial phases shortly.
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It is suggested that the ex-PSV star represents an alternative to Manchester City's Savinho, who continues to be a primary objective. He maintains that any prospective arrangement for Gakpo hinges on Liverpool's stance and the valuation, as he is not officially available for transfer.
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De Zerbi has recently disclosed that Tottenham's summer recruitment drive remains ongoing. Spurs have been active with Mateus Fernandes, Sandro Tonali, Jan Paul van Hecke, Marcos Senesi, Andy Robertson, and Martin Dubravka all arriving.
"In the transfer market, when I want one player, I become like a shark, no chance to say no," De Zerbi told football.london following the club's penalty shootout victory over Sydney FC in pre-season last Tuesday.
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"The transfer market, it's not finished for sure, but we completed 60 per cent of our project in the transfer market. Now we have another bomba!"
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The Italian subsequently clarified his remarks ahead of Spurs' 2-1 triumph against Chelsea in Sydney on Saturday.
The 47-year-old said: "Yes, but bomba in Italian is different from bomba in English. You can write what you want, no problem, no pressure. But I said we have to complete the transfer market.
"I think we have some other players to complete the squad, and the players will be here in the next few days. For me, the top players. I don't know if the expectations are bigger than two days ago, but we have to go forward and think of the good of the team of the club, of the squad.