Anthony Gordon
Image Credits: Getty Images
Since the Carabao Cup defeat at the hands of Newcastle United, there’s been a lot of talk surrounding Liverpool allegedly being interested in the Toon Army’s Swedish striker Alexander Isak. And, while the Reds chasing Isak makes sense, would it also make sense for them to reignite their interest in one of Isak’s teammates?
That teammate is, of course, former Toffee Anthony Gordon. It wasn’t so long ago that Newcastle, for profit and sustainability purposes, were open to selling the 24-year-old, and it was suggested that Liverpool were in talks to sign the winger. The Magpies managed to keep hold of Gordon, with other sales helping them balance things out financially, but could Liverpool revisit the deal this summer?
It’s clear that Arne Slot is keen to see some work done to his squad before the start of next season, and attacking players such as Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez are being tipped to leave the club. So, there will be efforts made to strengthen at the top of the pitch, and signing England international Anthony Gordon would fit.
At 24, he’s certainly the right age, with his best years still ahead of him. He’s a player who can operate across the front, preferably wide left, but also on the right and through the middle. Anthony Gordon is a goalscorer and goal-maker. His numbers back that up. And he’s a hard worker and professional, qualities that Slot is undoubtedly going to be looking for, as he’s often mentioned the importance of signing the right people.
Of course, Newcastle aren’t going to be keen on the idea of losing any of their key players this summer, especially on the back of their Carabao Cup triumph. Losing Isak would be a blow, and so would losing Gordon, with either departing likely to significantly impact their EPL betting odds next season unless they’re adequately replaced. However, to lose both would be unthinkable.
If Liverpool want to continue to compete on multiple fronts and have enough about them to go further in competitions and to deal with a hectic schedule, they do need to add more quality in depth, so Slot isn’t reliant on the same small group of players to play game after game, which ultimately leads to fatigue setting in.
This means he must be backed in the transfer market, and the right quality of player must arrive. And Gordon, as well as Isak, ticks this box. Maybe Liverpool require a striker like Isak more than they need a winger like Anthony Gordon, but Gordon would cost a lot less, and at times, he’s been one of the Premier League’s best in his position.
It will be interesting to see if any deals are struck with Newcastle this summer. There’s been a lot of talk after the clash at Wembley, which could indicate Slot was impressed with what he saw from the opposition, especially Isak, who was on target on the day. Maybe it was fortunate for the Magpies that Anthony Gordon was suspended.
Want to get the latest Liverpool news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.