Man City lose ground on Cody Gakpo as Arsenal in pole and other transfer rumours

Manchester City have reportedly been dealt a blow in their efforts to sign Cody Gakpo as Arsenal have moved into pole position, according to reports.

The 22-year-old has attracted admirers from around Europe and particularly in the Premier League with Jurgen Klopp's side also said to be among the interested suitors. He has been one of the key figures in their pursuit to dethrone Ajax, scoring 16 and providing 13 assists in all competitions this season.

Julian Alvarez will meet up with his Blues teammates in the summer after completing his January deadline day move from River Plate. But Voetbal International has reported that Mikel Arteta's side have jumped in front in the efforts to sign Gakpo.

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Bayern Munich were also said to be in the hunt for the Holland international. He has four years remaining on his current term in Eindhoven but he was destined to leave, as per the report from the Dutch outlet.

The Blues are also said to be keen on signing Sweden international Mattias Svanberg but face a host of competition from clubs in Italy as well as cross-city rivals Manchester United. There have been numerous reports suggesting the 23-year-old could leave in the summer and Fichajes have reported that Pep Guardiola's side are amongst a trall of suitors but Bologna are holding out for€20m (£16m).

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