Why Tottenham's interest in Cody Gakpo signals Roberto De Zerbi's tactical ambition

Roberto De Zerbi's wing problem

Tottenham Hotspur are watching Liverpool's Cody Gakpo closely as Roberto De Zerbi looks to reshape his forward line ahead of the new campaign. The Italian manager has made it clear that Spurs need greater tactical variety on the flanks if they are to sustain a top-four push.

Gakpo spent much of last season operating across multiple roles for Liverpool, often forced into central areas rather than playing in his natural starting position on the left wing. That versatility makes him an ideal candidate for De Zerbi's fluid attacking patterns in North London.

For Tottenham, landing Gakpo would address a recurring issue from last term: a lack of direct ball-carrying against low blocks. While Spurs generated high possession figures, their threat out wide often stagnated against deeply entrenched defences.

The mechanics of Gakpo's movement

At 27, Gakpo represents an experienced Premier League option who matches De Zerbi's preference for inverted wingers. When starting wide on the left, his tendency to cut inside onto his right foot opens up key passing lanes into the half-spaces.

During his time at PSV Eindhoven, Gakpo delivered his highest creative output when isolating full-backs before driving diagonally toward the penalty area. Liverpool utilised him more as a false nine or pressing front-runner, which at times masked his pure isolated 1v1 threat.

De Zerbi's tactical system relies heavily on draw-and-release mechanics, attracting pressure on one flank before rapidly switching play to an isolated winger. Sky Sports reported Tottenham's interest as De Zerbi targets specific profiles to execute these high-margin build-up patterns.

Where the move could backfire

While Gakpo offers established top-flight quality, bringing him to North London is not without tactical drawbacks. His defensive work rate in high-pressing schemes has occasionally drawn scrutiny when transitions break down unexpectedly.

De Zerbi demands aggressive track-backs from his wide attackers when possession is surrendered in the central third. If Gakpo struggles to maintain that defensive intensity, Tottenham's full-backs could find themselves exposed to fast counter-attacks.

There is also the question of squad balance and minute distribution. Adding another established senior winger risks blocking the pathway for younger talents currently breaking into the first-team dynamic.

The tactical fit in North London

Should the deal move forward, Gakpo's arrival would immediately alter how Tottenham structure their final-third entries. Instead of relying solely on overlaps, Spurs would possess a genuine goal threat cutting inside from the left channel.

His ability to function as a focal point during fast transitions aligns with De Zerbi's demand for rapid vertical progression. It marks a clear strategic choice by Spurs to prioritize established Premier League efficiency over long-term developmental projects in key positions.