Barcelona have entered the race to sign Newcastle United forward Anthony Gordon, intensifying what is becoming a significant transfer battle for the England international.
Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich have already signalled their intent to bring the 25-year-old to Germany, and now the Spanish giants are understood to be in discussions with the Tyneside club.
Speculation surrounding Gordon, who arrived at St James’ Park from Everton for £45 million in January 2023, has been persistent for two seasons.
His list of potential suitors extends beyond just two of Europe’s elite clubs, with Liverpool also long-term admirers of the player. Any bidding war for his services could see his valuation, currently rumoured to be around £75 million, escalate considerably.
Gordon has been a pivotal figure in Newcastle’s resurgence, forming a potent attacking partnership with Alexander Isak, who moved to Liverpool for £130 million last summer, and Jacob Murphy.
His impressive form was a driving force behind the club’s historic 2024-25 Carabao Cup triumph, ending a 70-year wait for major domestic silverware, and their subsequent qualification for this season’s Champions League, despite his suspension for the final.
However, despite a return of 17 goals this season, including 10 in the Champions League – one of which was against Barcelona – Gordon’s influence has waned amid ongoing transfer rumours.
Head coach Eddie Howe’s decision to omit the player from his squad upon his return from injury, citing a need to focus on the future, has been interpreted by some as a clear indication of an impending departure from Tyneside.
Gordon failed to feature in Newcastle’s final six Premier League games amid speculation over his future, but did still earn a place in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad for the World Cup.
He looks set to battle with Marcus Rashford, who has just spent the season on loan at Barcelona, for the left wing spot in England’s starting XI this summer.
Gordon also went to Euro 2024 under Gareth Southgate but made just one brief substitute appearance during England’s run to the final before the Three Lions fell short against Spain.
England will hope to go one step further this time around, and Gordon will be aiming to make a major impact on the world stage, despite the uncertainty surrounding his club future.
