Premier League giants Arsenal and Liverpool have reportedly allowed Barcelona a clear path to sign Newcastle United star Anthony Gordon for a staggering €80 million fee.
This surprising development suggests a lack of direct competition from England's top clubs for the talented winger, leaving the door wide open for the La Liga champions.
Former England international Chris Waddle has offered his perspective on why Arsenal, in particular, might have shied away from the deal. Waddle speculates that the North London club may have been hesitant to meet Newcastle's hefty valuation of the player. It's possible Arsenal were exploring more budget-friendly options for their left wing position, preferring to allocate resources elsewhere.
Gordon, who was previously linked with a move to his boyhood club Liverpool as well as Arsenal, has now made the unexpected switch to Barcelona. This move signifies a major career shift for the young English talent.
Waddle also suggests that Barcelona might view Gordon as a highly versatile player. His ability to operate effectively on the wing or even as a central striker could be a key factor, especially considering the potential departure of Robert Lewandowski from the Catalan club.
Furthermore, Gordon's past performances against Barcelona in previous encounters might have caught the eye of the Spanish giants. Impressing against such a formidable opponent could have played a role in Barcelona's decision to pursue him.
While Gordon has undoubtedly shown flashes of brilliance and impressed during his time at Newcastle, his transfer to Barcelona represents a significant step outside his comfort zone. The pressure and expectations at Camp Nou are immense.
Ultimately, whether Anthony Gordon can replicate his form and thrive in the demanding environment of Barcelona remains to be seen. His success at his new club is yet to be determined, making this transfer one to watch closely in the upcoming season.
