Anthony Gordon to Newcastle United: Everton hit with fresh twist as player takes drastic action

The 21-year-old was a ‘planned absence’ from Everton training on Tuesday but remained out for the Wednesday session and is yet to be seen so far at Finch Farm on Thursday. Sky Sports have reported that no explanation has been provided for Gordon’s absence on Wednesday or Thursday as Newcastle push to complete their first major January signing.

Mail Online have also reported that Gordon has informed Everton that he does not intent to return to the club in a drastic attempt to force through a January transfer. The youngster hasn’t started a match for Everton since football resumed following the World Cup break last month.

He was also an unused substitute in The Toffees’ previous Premier League match at West Ham United and has started just one of the last nine matches in all competitions.

The Magpies have made an approach to buy the winger from the struggling Toffees though no fee has been agreed so far.

There remains a gap in the two clubs’ valuation of the player. Everton previously quoted £60million for Gordon in the summer with Newcastle having a £35million bid rejected in the summer.

The managerless side may still consider selling the youngster for a significantly lower fee and personal terms with The Magpies are not expected to be an issue given the player’s evident desire to leave his boyhood club.

Gordon was one of a few Everton players who were confronted by fans following the defeat to Southampton at Goodison Park earlier this month.

With less than a week to go in the January transfer window, teenager Garang Kuol remains the club’s only signing so far.

And after Tuesday night’s 1-0 win over Southampton in the Carabao Cup semi-final first leg, Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe claimed to have no knowledge of Gordon’s potential incoming.

“Honestly, I’ve got no idea,” he said. “I’ve been preparing for the game, so I’ve got no idea. But I wouldn’t comment on individual players anyway.

“I’ve got no idea if we’ve got any closer to anything, but we’re actively looking, I’ve said that. But, as of tonight, I have no update.”