With Antoine Griezmann moving to Major League Soccer this summer, Atletico Madrid have started looking for a long-term replacement for the French forward. According to a report from Fichajes, the Spanish giants have identified Cody Gakpo as a top target, but they will have to battle Tottenham to sign the Liverpool star.
Gakpo, who came up the ranks at PSV Eindhoven and joined the Merseyside club in the summer of 2023, could be on the move this summer. The Dutch forward could look for a new challenge moving forward, as he is unlikely to have a prominent role under Arne Slot.
He has had a decent role this term, having racked up 2,922 minutes in his 42 outings. The Dutch forward has even contributed towards 12 goals (8 goals, 4 assists). While his ability to feature as a left-winger as well as a second striker does come in handy, he is not an undisputed starter for the Reds.
His contract does run until 2030, but his future is up in the air as the Merseyside club looks to add more firepower to their attack. The Premier League giants could look to cash in on him, and Atletico Madrid are ready to make the most out of it.
With Antoine Griezmann joining Orlando City this summer, Atletico are looking for a quality forward who can help cope with the French forward’s departure. Diego Simeone’s team consider Gakpo an ideal fit for their project.
They value the 26-year-old’s versatility and believe he has the qualities to thrive in Spain. He is great with link-up play, has a strong physical presence and is great in front of the goal. Gakpo is unlikely to have a prominent role going forward; as a result, intermediaries have begun offering him to the biggest clubs.
Atletico will look to make the most out of his current situation. While he is valued at €65 million, they could look to secure his services for a bargain. The Spanish club could face stiff competition from Tottenham, who are also after his signature.
The North London club are monitoring his situation. While they do have the financial strength to pull off such a move, their current situation isn’t that great. Atletico are optimistic that their project and the opportunity to play in Spain could lure the Dutch international.
