Gakpo Deal Unlikely: Tottenham Must Sign ‘One of Best Strikers in the World’ Instead

Tottenham Hotspur’s pursuit of Liverpool attacker Cody Gakpo appears to be losing momentum as the September 1 transfer deadline looms, according to a recent report from a football journalist.

Although Spurs secured six new signings by July 6, they have failed to add any further reinforcements in the 43 days since—though not from a lack of effort.

Manager Roberto De Zerbi has been eager to strengthen his attack by bringing in both Manchester City winger Savinho and Liverpool’s Gakpo ahead of the Premier League season. However, negotiations with their rival clubs have stalled, despite suggestions that both players are open to making the switch to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Spurs officials remain hopeful of finalizing deals, especially given their successful early-business track record this summer. But with the window entering its final stretch, they may soon be forced to explore alternative targets.

Beyond the two wingers, Tottenham could also look to bring in a new centre-forward—particularly if Richarlison departs. The Brazilian international is once again being tipped for an exit from north London, with former club Everton emerging as the latest potential suitor for the 29-year-old.

While a striker signing remains a possibility, talkSPORT’s Alex Crook has cast doubt on Gakpo’s arrival. Citing sources at Liverpool, Crook suggested that the Dutch forward is expected to thrive under Iraola at Anfield, making a move to Spurs before September 1 unlikely.

If that proves accurate, Tottenham may be forced back to the drawing board, especially as frustrations mount over the sluggish progress in securing Savinho.

Forget Osimhen—Tottenham Should Target Ivan Toney

One striker frequently linked with Tottenham in recent weeks is Victor Osimhen, who is reportedly eager to return to elite competition after an impressive spell at Galatasaray in Turkey.

However, according to GMS sources, any potential deal for the Nigerian—whether by Spurs or another Premier League side—faces significant hurdles, chiefly his substantial wage demands.

Speaking on the Last Word on Spurs podcast, GIVEMESPORT senior correspondent Ben Jacobs played down the Osimhen links and suggested that Ivan Toney could be a more realistic option.

Jacobs noted: “I’d keep half an eye on Ivan Toney as well. With Matthias Jaissle having left Al Ahli, and the club undergoing changes, there’s a chance Toney might consider a return to England. He’s won back-to-back Asian Champions Leagues and earned an England call-up while in Saudi Arabia. But for now, those close to him say he’s content and well-paid there. Still, it’s worth monitoring—especially since Toney was a backup option when Spurs’ initial bid for Dom Solanke was rejected.”

There’s no questioning Osimhen’s quality—he was pivotal to Napoli’s Serie A title win and scored 61 goals in 75 games for Galatasaray—but securing his signature would be a complicated affair.

Toney, by contrast, may prove more attainable. He also brings the Premier League experience that De Zerbi clearly values, having prioritized it in all his signings, including Savinho and Gakpo.

At 30, Toney has netted 72 goals in 94 appearances for Al Ahli and earned a place in England’s 2026 World Cup squad—a testament to his enduring quality. Al Ahli sporting director Rui Pedro recently praised him effusively:

“The way he’s scoring goals, providing assists, and working for the team is outstanding. His numbers are phenomenal. I have no doubt—Ivan Toney is one of the best strikers in the world right now, and the stats prove it.”