David Hopkinson has answered Anthony Gordon transfer question at Newcastle United
Bayern Munich have prioritised Anthony Gordon as their No.1 transfer target this summer.
Newcastle United are willing sellers in the Anthony Gordon transfer saga - but only on their terms.
Last year, the Magpies were held to ransom by a sulking superstar who refused to train or play. Alexander Isak was granted his wish on deadline day and has been dealt a deadly dose of karma since.
His debut season at Liverpool has been a nightmare - with more injuries than goals across all competitions. Toon chiefs desperately want to avoid a repeat of the Isak situation that derailed the summer transfer window.
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Anthony Gordon transfer saga
Fast forward to the present and Gordon is now angling for a St James’ Park exit. Eddie Howe has sidelined the 25-year-old in recent weeks amid speculation linking him to Bayern Munich.
Gordon was visibly distant during Newcastle’s post-match lap of honour on Sunday. Long after fans left, he was the last Toon player to leave, soaking up the moment on the centre circle.
Bayern - despite boasting Luis Diaz, Serge Gnabry, Jamal Musiala, Michael Olise and Harry Kane in attacking areas - have earmarked the England international as their top transfer target. There is growing confidence at the Allianz Arena that an agreement can be reached - but the Bundesliga club are wide of Newcastle’s valuation.
David Hopkinson open to sale
In March, Newcastle CEO David Hopkinson publicly vowed there will never be another “Isak-like scenario” on Tyneside. He told reporters: “We think through what players might or might not want to do this summer.
“But if an Isak-like scenario presents itself again, any player under contract is going to leave on our terms and we’re going to maximise the opportunity that might represent for the club. Going forward, our strategy is to buy well and sell well.”
While accepting the Magpies must “sell well”, Hopkinson refused to be drawn on specific names. However, The Gazette understands Gordon would be allowed to leave provided his transfer fee is met.
“We are not ready to answer that,” Hopkinson responded when asked which players will leave. “We have got to see what set-up we are in and what opportunities present themselves in the marketplace. What I will say is that we intend to be disciplined, active, thoughtful and as proactive as we possibly can.”
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