Newcastle United going for Gordon replacement – New target after Muñoz saga

Newcastle United sold Anthony Gordon to Barcelona in May and are in the market for his successor.

On May 28th, we relayed news Newcastle United are keen on Abde Ezzalzouli, seen as a potential replacement for Gordon.

Two days later, Sport Witness covered claims from Spain that the Real Betis star would find it difficult to reject Eddie Howe’s side.

The Premier League side then decided to bet on Víctor Muñoz and came close to reaching an agreement. Liverpool were successful in snatching him from the Magpies’ clutches. This would have convinced the latter to shift their focus again to Abe.

Complicated deal for Newcastle United 

The Morocco international missed the World Cup due to a late injury and is focusing on regaining full fitness for pre-season.

He’s back on Newcastle United’s radar, after they missed out on Víctor Muñoz to the Reds.

Monday’s edition of AS relays claims made elsewhere about the Tyneside club and provides Los Verdiblancos’ stance on Abde Ezzalzouli. The financial aspect would make it difficult for Eddie Howe’s side.

He joined the Spanish club from Barcelona in 2023 and has a €60m release clause.

The La Liga winners retain a sell-on clause and therefore, Real Betis insist a sale won’t be possible for less than €50m.

Despite AS stating the fee would make it difficult, Newcastle United could afford to match his release clause.

Abe managed 15 goals and 13 assists from 43 matches this season. Online, AS adds he has a key role under Manuel Pellegrini.

The manager considers the Moroccan a key player, another factor that would make it complicated for Newcastle United.

Earlier this month, Sport Witness relayed news Abde isn’t keen on joining the Magpies because they can’t offer Champions League like Real Betis. He will only consider leaving for a top club.

Situation not in Newcastle United’s favour 

The attacker’s plan is to continue at Real Betis unless a top club were to make advances.

Manuel Pellegrini is keen on retaining Abde Ezzalzouli as he’s a key part of his project. These two factors, coupled with the Andalusian club’s demands, would make a potential deal complex for Newcastle United.