Bayern Munich have expressed interest in Newcastle United winger Anthony Gordon.

Eddie Howe has reiterated that Anthony Gordon’s recent absence is partially due to Newcastle United having one eye on next season.

Last week, the Toon boss suggested the winger missed out against Nottingham Forest as he was looking towards the future. Gordon has not featured since the 2-1 defeat to Crystal Palace on April 12.

Bayern Munich are understood to have opened talks with Newcastle about a potential summer move. Toon chiefs would cash in - they do not want a repeat of the Alexander Isak saga - but the two clubs remain apart on the transfer fee.

Eddie Howe gives biggest Anthony Gordon hint yet

Speaking to reporters this morning, Howe dropped his biggest hint yet that Gordon will leave this summer. He said: “No updates from me (on Gordon). These are discussions that potentially might be happening, but not with me. When you get to this stage of the season, part of what we will be doing, we'll be looking to next year, naturally.

“Anthony has just come back from injury. I think the team has played well in his absence and with a partial view to the future, yes.”

The 48-year-old did not give a concrete answer on whether Gordon would play for the Magpies again. When asked if the England international could feature in the final two games, Howe added: “If it's the right thing for the team, and as I say, I put the team and the club above any individual, then I would play them, of course.”

Eddie Howe on Anthony Gordon x Alexander Isak comparison

The Gazette offered Howe a silver lining that, no matter who leaves this summer, the situation will not be as damaging as when Isak left last year. However, he insisted that any high-profile exit would be a blow to the club.

“It's difficult,” Howe said. “You don't want to keep going back to last year. Alex was the focal point of the team. He was in the middle of the pitch (and) there are very few players in world football like him.

“Naturally, the team was going to be hit. I get your question, but I still think if anyone leaves the football club, a big signing leaves the football club, there will be a dent to us. That's why they're the players that are valued the most. All the players that have been linked with moves away have contributed massively to our success.”

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