The current summer trading period has presented difficulties for Newcastle United, among others, with numerous potential acquisitions finding opportunities elsewhere as prominent clubs increase their expenditures.
Liverpool have been actively involved in the market, directly influencing Newcastle by acquiring Hugo Ekitike, a player Newcastle had targeted, along with Jeremie Frimpong, Florian Wirtz, Milos Kerkez, and a collection of goalkeepers whose playing time in the Premier League is uncertain.
Newcastle reportedly intensified their pursuit of Ekitike due to concerns about a substantial offer from the Reds for Alexander Isak, their key striker and a top performer in the Premier League last season.
Will Newcastle’s struggles persist?
The signing of Ekitike initially seemed to alleviate the primary concern for Eddie Howe’s team. However, Isak’s choice to forgo Newcastle’s pre-season tour in favor of a potential departure, despite Liverpool’s acquisition of Ekitike, presents significant challenges.
The failure to secure James Trafford, the England Under-21 goalkeeper expected to join Manchester City, intensifies the disappointment. The difficulties encountered during this period might not be over for the Tyneside club.
According to reports from Charlie Watts, who covers Arsenal for Caught Offside, the Gunners will prioritize player departures following the anticipated acquisition of Viktor Gyokeres from Sporting Lisbon, while suggesting further additions are possible.
“With a significant portion of the trading window remaining, Arsenal may still explore additional opportunities,” Watts noted.
“They are reportedly considering options to bolster their left-sided attack, with Eberechi Eze, Rodrygo, and Anthony Gordon identified as potential targets.
“Whether [Ethan] Nwaneri’s contract extension influences their pursuit remains uncertain, though it shouldn’t necessarily preclude further action.”
While Newcastle supporters may not fret excessively over the prospect of losing Gordon, the persistent notion of other Champions League contenders poaching players or outmaneuvering them in transfer pursuits will undoubtedly elicit frustration.
Gordon, aged 24 and currently ranked ninth among the premier left wingers globally by FourFourTwo, made the move to Newcastle from Everton in 2023. He has since become a consistent performer, earning a place in the England national team.
He has been mentioned in connection with Liverpool as well, yet there have been some positives for Newcastle lately.
The acquisition of Anthony Elanga from Nottingham Forest represents a valuable addition. He is expected to play a pivotal role in Howe’s strategy for both the Premier League and Champions League campaigns, regardless of the challenges encountered during the pre-season period.
