Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has sent out a fresh Anthony Gordon transfer message amid Liverpool's interest in the player.
The Reds have been linked with the England international throughout the majority of the transfer window but it appears that a deal is unlikely to happen as things stand. However, that doesn't mean the club might not make a last-ditch effort to sign him before the end of the month.
But in order to deter any such possibility, Howe has claimed that Gordon is an "integral part" of the side and has reiterated his desire to keep working with the 23-year-old ahead of the new campaign.
The former Everton winger starred during the first half of Newcastle's 4-0 victory over Girona at St James' Park on Friday night, grabbing himself a goal in the process, and his performance was hailed by Howe, who also credited his commitment to the club throughout the summer.
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Following the game, he said: "He's been committed. We've had no conversations over the summer where it has been fractious or negative. He's always been the Anthony Gordon who has given absolutely everything to Newcastle.
"He's such an important player for us, we didn't want to lose anybody. Why would we want to lose our best players? We fought really hard to make the right decisions. In those last few weeks it was very, very difficult. He's an integral part of what we're doing. I'm confident he is ok. You can only judge Anthony on what he has given Newcastle on the pitch."
Gordon had only returned to Newcastle pre-season training on Tuesday following an extended summer break from competing at Euro 2024 with England, yet he was thrust straight into the starting lineup against Girona on Friday.
Speaking on his performance and fitness, Howe revealed how impressed he was with the player and believes he will be ready for Newcastle's season opener against Southampton next week, further hinting at where his future lies this summer.
"The plan was for 45 minutes. He looked good today. He is behind the others and had to have a mental break after the Euros and a long season. He played very well and we will build his training load up next week," said Howe.
"No doubt, he feels good. He wanted to play longer tonight. He is a professional and has looked after himself. I am confident he will be ready for next week. I thought he would come back fit. He is young. It is easier when you are a younger player. We need to see how he trains this week and make an assessment."
Gordon is reportedly keen on the idea of a move to Liverpool this summer but the Magpies are said to be holding out for a financial package of around $127million (£100m/€117m) to even consider a sale to the Reds.
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