Liverpool explored a move for Anthony Gordon this summer as Newcastle battled against PSR issues in June. The transfer ultimately did not materialize, with the Magpies finding other routes to compliance, but it has left St James' Park officials scrambling to secure the winger's long-term future at the club .
It took until the day before the transfer deadline, but Liverpool ultimately added Federico Chiesa to the ranks, which is likely to reduce the clamor for Gordon. Meanwhile, Luis Diaz has started the season in hot form, while Mohamed Salah is as incredible as ever.
But speculation over Salah's future at Anfield is only getting stronger, especially in the aftermath of remarks he made post-match following the win over Manchester United . Coincidentally, Gordon has also spent more time than usual on Newcastle's right flank so far this season, something Liverpool will watch with interest.
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There's a level of uncertainty over exactly when Gordon's current deal with Newcastle ends — it was described only as "long-term" when he arrived, although it has been suggested that it might only run until 2026. Per the "i" , the club hierarchy believes the terms are sufficient to protect against transfer interest for the time being.
But while the plan was always to try and tie Gordon to fresh terms following his excellent first full season, it's claimed that there is now more "urgency" to that operation. It follows a summer which Eddie Howe himself admitted was unsettling for the squad.
Gordon is a boyhood Liverpool fan, and it was widely reported that he was keen on the transfer when it was proposed. A deal was on the table that would have seen Joe Gomez move in the opposite direction, although the same report insists that the move was "never close" in spite of the talks.
Whatever the truth may be in that regard, Newcastle will want to make a statement with a new deal for Gordon. A review is underway over a summer where Marc Guehi was pursued for months to no avail, with supporters keen for reassurance that the project remains on track.
Seven points from nine in the Premier League is a handy reminder that the existing Newcastle squad was already pretty good, and that hanging on to key stars like Gordon was a not insignificant transfer market victory. But with Liverpool likely to be keeping tabs, a new contract feels like a must.
Liverpool.com says: Opportunism was the buzzword for Richard Hughes at Liverpool this summer, and it's likely to be how the club continues to operate in future. An ever-decreasing length of contract for Gordon, who just so happens to be keen on a move to Anfield, would certainly present an appealing avenue to explore.
Newcastle will want to nip that in the bud sooner rather than later. How those talks pan out will give a good indication of the extent to which Gordon's head was truly turned by Liverpool interest.
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