Manchester City enter the race to sign Liverpool-linked Anthony Gordon
In a possible blow to Liverpool's ambitions in the transfer market this summer, Manchester City have reportedly entered the race to sign Newcastle United star Anthony Gordon.
The Reds, who have a longstanding interest in Gordon, initiated discussions over a potential deal last month but were put off by Newcastle's steep demands and an insistence on including young defender Jarell Quansah in part-exchange.
That’s according to Football Insider which claims the Magpies are seeking a total package worth £100m for the 23-year-old, who remains on international duty with the Three Lions at Euro 2024.
Now, though, a fresh report from the same outlet claims that Pep Guardiola's side are poised to enter the race.
Manchester City enter the race for Anthony Gordon
Gordon, who left Liverpool's academy at age 11, has flourished at Newcastle, where he registered 12 goals and 11 assists last season having joined from Everton just 18 months ago in a £45 million deal.
His impressive performance earned him the club’s Player of the Year award, making him a key figure in Eddie Howe’s squad.
This has attracted interest from both Liverpool and now Manchester City, with reports indicating that City manager Pep Guardiola is keen to add a “lethal” forward to his ranks amid uncertainty over the futures of Jack Grealish, Kevin De Bruyne and Bernardo Silva.
The Citizens are reportedly open to offers for Grealish, while De Bruyne and Bernardo have been attracting interest from Saudi Arabia and Barcelona, respectively.
Liverpool planning a second Gordon bid
That said, the Reds are undeterred by their initial setback and are planning a second bid for Gordon worth an initial £70 million.
While Newcastle's original demand for a total package worth £100 million still stands, recent financial manoeuvres, such as the sales of Yankuba Minteh to Brighton and Elliott Anderson to Nottingham Forest, have alleviated some of their financial pressures.
Nevertheless, Newcastle remain cautious about selling one of their prized assets. The club's fears that Gordon’s head has been turned by Liverpool’s interest are palpable, and new sporting director Paul Mitchell will prioritise addressing the winger’s future.
Despite this, Newcastle manager Eddie Howe plans to retain Gordon for the upcoming season.
Arne Slot looking for a new winger
Liverpool's need for a new left winger is pressing, especially with Luis Diaz potentially on the move amid interest from Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona.
Should Diaz depart, securing Gordon could become even more critical for Liverpool as they look to strengthen their wide options.
As the summer transfer window progresses, both Manchester City and Liverpool will likely intensify their efforts to secure Gordon’s signature, setting the stage for yet another high-stakes battle between two Premier League giants.