Anthony Gordon is angling for a Newcastle United exit nine after after Alexander Isak’s explosive departure.
Eddie Howe insisted any player who leaves Newcastle United this summer will deal a huge blow to the club.
Eight months ago, one of the bitterest transfer sagas in recent years ended when Alexander Isak joined Liverpool on deadline day. Previously worshpped at St James’ Park, the Swede refused to train or play and, in doing so, burned all bridges with Newcastle fans.
The optics of Isak’s departure also dealt a major setback to the Saudi-backed project overall. In a non-PSR world, Manchester City were not forced to sell prized assets four years into their post-takeover era.
The Gazette has launched a WhatsApp NUFC channel to bring the latest news, analysis and team & injury updates directly to your phone.Simply click this linkto join our NUFC WhatsApp channel.
Eddie Howe on Anthony Gordon x Alexander Isak comparison
Fast forward to the present and Newcastle face a similar situation with Anthony Gordon. Bayern Munich are heavily linked with the winger, who has not featured since April 12.
Given Isak’s explosive exit, the Magpies may feel as though the worst-case scenario had already passed. But Howe believes any major outgoing will be tough for Newcastle to overcome.
“It's difficult,” Howe told The Gazette. “You don't want to keep going back to last year. Alex was the focal point of the team. He was in the middle of the pitch. There are very few players in world football like him.
“Naturally, the team was going to be hit. I get your question, but I still think if anyone leaves the football club, a big signing leaves the football club, there will be a dent to us. That's why they're the players that are valued the most. All the players that have been linked with moves away have contributed massively to our success.”
‘It has to be different’ - Eddie Howe
Howe also called for the Toon hierarchy to be proactive in the upcoming window. Newcastle - operating without a CEO or sporting director - infamously missed out on several top targets last summer.
“I think it has to be different,” Howe added. “I think I was sitting here this time last year saying the same thing. We needed to move quickly. We needed to be dynamic. You'll find that the best players won't hang around for too long who are available on the market.
“The speed at which the transfer market moves now is very quick. Teams are very efficient and we have to be there as one of those teams.”
Continue Reading