FC Barcelona set for a landmark transfer: Anthony Gordon close to joining
Anthony Gordon is anticipated to finalize his contract with FC Barcelona this Friday, marking a significant move for the Catalan giants.
With Robert Lewandowski’s departure confirmed, FC Barcelona is swiftly moving to secure a potent replacement. Multiple reports indicate that the Catalan club has set its sights firmly on Anthony Gordon.
The versatile Newcastle winger, who can also operate effectively as a central forward, is expected to be officially announced by both clubs in the very near future.
An €80 million transfer deal for Barcelona
FC Barcelona wasted no time after clinching their league title. The club has already identified and seemingly secured Robert Lewandowski’s successor.
Earlier this week, The Athletic revealed that the Catalan leadership had reached an agreement with Newcastle for a substantial fee of €80 million, plus performance-related bonuses.
This significant development has since been corroborated by Fabrizio Romano, the renowned transfer market insider.
Furthermore, Barcelona has already agreed on personal terms for the 25-year-old English talent, who has been a long-term target. This particular transfer dossier was spearheaded by Blaugrana coach Hansi Flick and sporting director Deco. Both influential figures are known admirers of Gordon, whose career trajectory saw him emerge from Liverpool’s academy, shine at Everton, and ultimately explode onto the scene at St James’ Park.
Gordon was in Barcelona on Thursday, accompanied by his agents and family, to undergo his mandatory medical examination. As expected, he passed with flying colors.
From a sporting perspective, the English international is coming off a highly impressive season with Newcastle, tallying 17 goals and 5 assists across 46 appearances in all competitions, notably netting 10 goals in just 12 Champions League matches.
A different profile for Barcelona’s attack
This past season, Lamine Yamal stood out as Barcelona’s top scorer, with Ferran Torres also playing a crucial role in Hansi Flick’s successful campaign. While 37-year-old Robert Lewandowski still managed a respectable 19 goals in 46 games, Anthony Gordon offers a distinct, versatile profile. He can play centrally but thrives most effectively on the left wing, cutting inside onto his stronger foot.
The chosen profile for the left flank needs to bring speed, penetration, and a high-intensity pressing game to the squad.
Meanwhile, the situation surrounding Marcus Rashford remains complex. Until June 15, the Blaugrana held a buy clause valued at €30 million, a figure lower than Gordon’s transfer fee. However, the primary obstacle lies in Rashford’s significant salary demands, which pose a challenge for Joan Laporta’s financial framework.
This doesn’t necessarily rule out the Manchester United winger from playing in Spain next season.
Two potential options are on the table: a renegotiated loan agreement or a new purchase offer with a more manageable salary. In addition to these two English talents, Barcelona is also reportedly keeping a close eye on Julian Alvarez. These significant reinforcements aim to ensure Barcelona’s continued dominance in La Liga, following their second consecutive title this season.
