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Anthony Gordon has finally addressed the whirlwind of speculation surrounding his potential transfer to Liverpool during the summer of 2024. In a candid interview with Sky Sports, the Newcastle United star dismissed the rumours and reaffirmed his commitment to his current club, where he recently signed a lucrative new contract. The saga, which almost saw Gordon don Liverpool red, raises intriguing questions about modern football’s financial manoeuvring and player loyalty.
How the Deal Almost Happened
The potential move was sparked by Newcastle’s need to balance their books under Premier League Profit and Sustainability Rules. To meet the looming deadline, they considered offering Gordon to Liverpool in a deal that would have involved Joe Gomez moving in the opposite direction. Liverpool were reportedly willing to shell out £75 million, valuing Gomez at £45 million as part of the exchange.
The plan gained traction to the extent that Gordon reportedly informed his England teammates during Euro 2024 that he expected the transfer to happen. However, the deal collapsed when Newcastle secured alternative financial solutions by selling Yankuba Minteh to Brighton for £30 million and Elliot Anderson to Nottingham Forest for £35 million. These moves allowed Newcastle to keep Gordon, who has since become the club’s highest-paid player.
Anthony Gordon’s Response to Speculation
In his interview with Sky Sports, Gordon expressed frustration over the constant speculation about his future:
“There’s been a lot of talk this year about my future, where I’m going, where I want to go, without anyone actually asking me. Just leave me to play football. I just want to be happy, play football, and I love it here. I’ve said it plenty of times.”
Gordon also revealed how the speculation affected his performances, admitting:
“It has [frustrated me]. It took me away from enjoying my football this year and I think that is where the inconsistency has come from because I’ve got caught in that a little bit. But I just want to play football — especially for Newcastle.”
The Impact of Newcastle’s Financial Decisions
The saga highlights Newcastle’s delicate financial balancing act in an era where financial fair play rules force clubs to make tough choices. By selling Minteh and Anderson instead of Gordon, Newcastle not only addressed their financial obligations but retained a player who remains central to their ambitions. For Liverpool, missing out on Gordon may not be the biggest issue considering the form of Luis Diaz & Cody Gakpo.
Our View – Anfield Index Analysis
Liverpool supporters might view the Gordon transfer saga with mixed emotions. While some might lament the failure to secure a young and dynamic forward, others may feel that the £75 million price tag, coupled with the loss of Joe Gomez, would have been too steep a price to pay.
From a footballing perspective, Gordon’s versatility and pace could have added depth to Liverpool’s attack, especially given their need for rotational options in a demanding campaign. However, his public statements suggest he’s found happiness and purpose at Newcastle, which may have influenced Liverpool’s reluctance to push harder for the deal.
Additionally, Joe Gomez’s importance to Liverpool cannot be understated. His ability to cover multiple defensive positions is a valuable asset in a squad often tested by injuries. Losing him might have left Liverpool’s backline vulnerable, particularly in a season where defensive solidity has proven critical.
Ultimately, the collapse of the deal seems a win for Newcastle, who retained a player committed to their project. For Liverpool fans, Gordon remains a interesting “what if” — a player who might have flourished at Liverpool but whose destiny now lies firmly with Newcastle United.
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