Is Newcastle’s move for Anthony Gordon the right one?

Newcastle United have completed the signing of Everton star Anthony Gordon, as manager Eddie Howe looks to bolster his attacking unit for the second half of the season.

The Magpies have been confident of signing the England Under-21 international after holding formal talks with Everton over their player. However, the Toffees’ £55m valuation of their academy starlet goes above what Newcastle United are willing to pay.

Gordon, 21, has not started a game for the Royal Blues since the mid-season World Cup break and has made it clear that he wants to leave the club in this transfer window amidst links with Newcastle.

Anthony Gordon to Newcastle—Right move?

Newcastle United are currently in contention for a Champions League spot having enjoyed a superb 2022/23 season so far. They also have one foot in the Carabao Cup final following a 1-0 win over Southampton away in the first leg of the semi-finals.

Eddie Howe knows the importance of adding to his squad amidst the gruelling schedule of fixtures and has targeted a forward in this transfer window. The departure of Chris Wood to Nottingham Forest on loan has weakened Newcastle’s attacking unit, leaving Eddie Howe with Callum Wilson and Alexander Isak as the only No.9 options.

However, Howe does have few players who are versatile and can operate through the middle as a centre-forward, so perhaps he is more inclined towards adding a wide forward rather than a pure No.9. Anthony Gordon, in that regard, could be a good fit at Newcastle.

Gordon played a starring role for Everton in last season’s Premier League survival bid under Frank Lampard, who was relieved of his duties on Monday after the club’s 2-0 defeat to fellow relegation strugglers West Ham. However, the Englishman’s form has dipped this term, as he has managed only three goals in 16 league games.

Nonetheless, he is only 21 and has a huge potential to be unlocked, something Howe will be confident of achieving. Gordon is quick, industrious, tenacious and direct with good technique and ability on the ball. The England youth international can play on either flank, and he will add competition for the likes of Allan Saint-Maximin, Joelinton, Jacob Murphy and Miguel Almiron.