Barcelona step up Antony Gordon pursuit
Barcelona’s interest in Antony Gordon is becoming increasingly serious after positive talks between the club and the player’s representatives in London. Sporting director Deco has been heavily involved in discussions as the Catalan side looks to move quickly in the market ahead of the summer window.
Liverpool and Bayern Munich had previously been viewed as the leading contenders for the Newcastle United winger, but recent conversations with Barcelona officials appear to have changed the situation significantly. According to Fabrizio Romano, Gordon and those close to him now see Barcelona as the most attractive destination for a potential move this summer.
Barcelona aiming to avoid post-World Cup price rise
Barcelona has already opened talks with Newcastle United as they attempt to accelerate negotiations before the World Cup potentially increases the player’s market value.
Inside the club, Gordon is seen as a profile that fits naturally into Hansi Flick’s system. Both Deco and club president Joan Laporta are believed to be strong admirers of the English international and feel his style of play could bring a different dimension to Barcelona’s attack.
Gordon impressed despite injury problems
The 25-year-old finished the campaign as Newcastle United’s leading scorer despite struggling with recurring hip and thigh injuries throughout the season. Gordon recorded 6 goals and 2 assists in the Premier League while also producing an impressive return of 10 goals and 1 assist in the Champions League.
Following Alexander Isak’s departure, Eddie Howe occasionally used Gordon in a central attacking role, where the winger adapted impressively. Although naturally more comfortable operating from the left flank, Gordon delivered several strong performances as a striker during the campaign.
Flick values Gordon’s tactical flexibility
One of the qualities Barcelona appreciate most about Gordon is his ability to operate across multiple attacking positions. The club are actively searching for reinforcements capable of contributing both on the wing and through the middle, making Gordon an attractive tactical option for Flick.
Compared to other attacking targets such as Julián Álvarez and João Pedro, Gordon is also viewed internally as a more realistic option in the current market, particularly if Barcelona can complete the deal for under €80 million.
Newcastle standing firm on valuation
Despite Barcelona’s growing confidence, negotiations remain complicated because of Newcastle’s valuation of the player.
Paul Joyce reports that Barcelona believes a fee in the region of £60 million could be enough to complete the transfer, while Newcastle United continues to demand closer to £75 million.
Even with continued interest from Liverpool and Bayern Munich, Gordon has now emerged as Barcelona’s priority attacking target as the club looks to strengthen the squad for next season.
