Eddie Howe has once again issued a firm stance on Anthony Gordon amid the Liverpool transfer links,
With all the Martin Zubimendi news it’s easy to forget that Liverpool were also in for the England international earlier on in the window.
By now, most Reds fans are already aware of how the saga between the club and Newcastle United played out at the beginning of June.
The Magpies’ financial predicament was arguably the most important factor in the first discussions between Liverpool and Newcastle United.
The deadline for the Profit and Sustainability regulations (PSR) of the Premier League was the end of June, and thus the Magpies had offered Anthony Gordon to Liverpool out of desperation to ensure they did not default on the laws.
The Geordie club wanted at least £75 million for Gordon, with Joe Gomez moving to Newcastle for 45 million as a sort of player swap.
Negotiations were described as promising, with both clubs agreeing in principle to the terms. However, the deal fell through with Eddie Howe’s side getting the funds they need through Yankuba Minteh and Elliot Anderson instead.
Now Eddie Howe has made clear his stance on the matter after his previous claims.
What did Eddie Howe say about Anthony Gordon?
Eddie Howe has admitted that Financial Fair Play still has an impact on decision making at St James’ Park, but that the club will fight ‘tooth and nail’ to keep their best players at the club.
Speaking in a press conference ahead of a friendly against Girona, the former Bournemouth manager said:
“So I won’t talk about individual players but naturally, with incomings there will be outgoings as well.”
“What I mean by that, I don’t mean literally everyone has a ‘For Sale’ sign on their head. We are still in a position where Financial Fair Play will affect our decision making.”
“We want to keep our best players, and we will fight tooth and nail to do that.”
“That doesn’t mean there won’t be outgoings of certain players, because there has to be from our side. I don’t think Kieran [Tripper] is openly looking to leave.”
“He has been very good in training this week and came back with an ambition to fight for his place, like every player does when he comes back for pre-season, fully committed.”
Anthony Gordon had a standout 2023/24 season with Newcastle United, featuring prominently in 47 matches across all competitions.
He contributed significantly to the team’s success, scoring 11 goals and providing 10 assists as the Magpies finished 7th.
He is also praised for his high work rate and pressing ability, which align well with Liverpool’s tactical approach under new head coach Arne Slot.
Want to get the latest Liverpool news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.