Mansion Sports – Manchester City have been forced to look for another option in the final stages of the transfer window after Liverpool took a firm stance regarding Cody Gakpo's future.

The Premier League champions made a major move to sign the Netherlands international, but The Reds are unwilling to part with their versatile forward without a replacement already secured.

City's Move for Gakpo Rejected

Manchester City are officially searching for an alternative in the transfer market after Liverpool rejected their substantial approach for Gakpo, according to Sky Sports.

The Etihad club had identified the Netherlands international as a primary target to strengthen their attack, but their efforts to bring him away from Anfield have encountered a major obstacle.

Sources indicate that City contacted the Merseyside club over the weekend after receiving positive signals that the player might be open to a major move in the North West.

Although Enzo Maresca's side demonstrated significant financial strength, Liverpool remained firm in their valuation of the player and their squad requirements.

Man City Turn to Alternative After Gakpo Bid Rejected

The bid, which reached £80 million in total including add-ons, was officially rejected by Liverpool on Monday as the transfer deadline approaches.

Although the prospect of receiving such a fee for the 27-year-old player was tempting, the decision-makers at Anfield prioritised squad stability over an immediate injection of funds.

Manchester City are understood to be searching for an alternative after Liverpool rejected their £80 million bid for Gakpo, signalling that the champions could now turn to another target to ensure they have sufficient squad depth in their title defence.

Liverpool's Dilemma in Finding a Replacement

The main reason behind Liverpool's decision to reject permission for the sale lies in their inability to secure a top-class replacement within such a short period.

The club have been actively searching for several options across Europe and the Premier League to ensure their attacking department does not lack players.

Among the names being considered are emerging Brighton youngster Yankuba Minteh and Crystal Palace winger Ismaïla Sarr.

However, negotiations for both players failed to reach a breakthrough, as their respective clubs were unwilling to sell at such a late stage of the transfer window or demanded fees that Liverpool were not prepared to meet under the circumstances.

Gakpo's Evolving Role at Anfield

Uncertainty surrounding Gakpo's future has increased following the arrival of Bradley Barcola from Paris Saint-Germain.

The French winger joined The Reds in a major deal worth £106 million plus potential add-ons that could increase the overall transfer package by a further £17 million.

Barcola's arrival provides strong competition on the left flank, Gakpo's preferred position, leading to speculation that the Dutch player could no longer be considered part of the squad's primary requirements.