Tottenham Hotspur's reported interest in Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo is underpinned by a statistical profile that suggests he could be a valuable addition to Roberto de Zerbi's squad. Data from the previous season indicates Gakpo outperformed Tottenham's current forward options in several key attacking and defensive metrics.
Gakpo concluded the last campaign with a higher expected goals total, more shots, more assists, and more significant chances created than any of Tottenham's forwards. While Richarlison scored more league goals, Gakpo attempted 26 fewer shots and created only half as many big chances. Other forwards like Solanke and Tel also fell short in several of these attacking measures when compared to Gakpo's output. Randal Kolo Muani, who had a prior loan spell at Tottenham, also trailed Gakpo's performance figures.
Offensive Contributions
Beyond direct goal contributions, Gakpo's ability to occupy dangerous attacking spaces is notable. He recorded 187 touches in the opposition penalty area, significantly more than Richarlison (125), Tel (68), and Solanke (55). Furthermore, his 4.17 expected assists from open play was the highest among this group, highlighting his dual threat of scoring and creating opportunities.
Defensive Impact and Physicality
Gakpo also offers defensive value. He regained possession 87 times, with 45 of those occurring in the middle third, and made 13 interceptions. These figures exceed those posted by Richarlison, Tel, and Solanke. Although Tel completed more dribbles, Gakpo maintained a slightly better success rate.
Gakpo's broader statistical profile indicates proficiency in link-up play (78th percentile), pass progression (75th percentile), and creative threat (67th percentile). This suggests a player comfortable in tight spaces and capable of contributing to build-up play. At 6ft 4in, Gakpo also brings a physical presence, ranking in the 96th percentile for aerial volume among positional peers across Europe's top five leagues. This aerial ability could provide Tottenham with an alternative attacking avenue against defensively compact opponents, through diagonal passes, crosses, or more direct balls.