Fabrizio Romano: Liverpool 'ready' for forward signing despite Anthony Gordon setback
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano believes that Liverpool could still sign a new forward this summer despite a deal for Anthony Gordon falling through.
The Reds discussed the possibility of bringing the former Everton man to Anfield, but felt the winger's price tag was too high. They also refused to part ways with young centre-back Jarell Quansah, who was wanted by Newcastle United as part of a deal.
The Magpies were reportedly demanding a fee of around £100m for Gordon, who was actually a youth player at Liverpool until he was released by the club as an 11-year-old.
Liverpool were hopeful a deal could be done with Newcastle needing to sell players before the PSR deadline at the end of June, but they are now under far less pressure to let one of their prized assets leave St James' Park.
However, journalist Romano believes negotiations for Gordon prove that Liverpool could still recruit a new attacker this summer, even if they have to wait for the right opportunity to arise.
FABRIZIO ROMANO OFFERS LIVERPOOL TRANSFER UPDATE
Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, Romano offered an update on Liverpool's search for attacking reinforcements.
"Up front, it depends on the opportunities. If there is an opportunity, why not?" said Romano.
"For example, Anthony Gordon was one of the names they considered internally; there was a possibility to make the deal happen, but not under Newcastle's conditions.
"They believe Newcastle were asking too big a fee for Anthony Gordon, which is why the deal didn't happen, but this is showing how Liverpool could be reactive and ready in case they feel there is an opportunity also up front."
While a deal for Gordon is yet to be ruled out, it appears increasingly unlikely that the England international will be moving back to Merseyside. However, Newcastle are worried that the player may have had his head turned by the Reds' approach.
Liverpool will have other transfer targets in the final third of the pitch, with the likes of Johan Bakayoko and Eberechi Eze having been linked previously.
The club's transfer plans may be impacted by Luis Diaz's future, with the Colombian - who lost the Copa America final on Sunday - reportedly keen on a move to Barcelona.