Newcastle United

Newcastle United

Premier League • England

Anthony Gordon explains why Everton to Newcastle is ‘really big step’ as transfer request leads to done deal

Anthony Gordon pic via Newcastle United

Newcastle United have completed the signing of Anthony Gordon from Everton in a move that the winger feels could allow him to fulfil his potential.

Gordon was an Everton academy product who was beginning to become an important player for their first team. He took the number 10 shirt at Goodison Park ahead of the current season in recognition of his growing importance there.

However, after being linked with an exit in the summer, he has now completed a departure from the relegation-threatened Toffees.

Newcastle recently agreed a deal to sign him and now they have announced his arrival on a long-term contract.

They say the fee is undisclosed, but reports have suggested they are paying Everton up to £45million for Gordon. At that price, he will be their second most expensive signing of all time after Alexander Isak.

Gordon’s former club have confirmed that the England youth international submitted a formal transfer request before his move.

The 21-year-old is now ready for the next step in his career as he joins a club aiming to qualify for European football this season.

Although some have raised questions about how good Gordon actually is, he feels he is ready to take this “really big step” in his stride and show what he is fully capable of.

Gordon told NUFC TV: “Since I heard of the interest, I was always convinced Newcastle were for me.

“I think the fan base and the city really suits me as a person, the way the team are playing under the gaffer at the minute really suits me, and the club just look like they’re heading in the right direction.

“I feel like it’s a really big step. People haven’t seen what I’m capable of yet. I think under the gaffer, and the way the club’s going, I can really excel here.”

Eddie Howe welcomes Anthony Gordon to Newcastle

Able to play anywhere across the attack, Gordon replenishes Newcastle’s depth in the final third after they loaned Chris Wood out to Nottingham Forest earlier this month.

Eddie Howe always said he wasn’t looking for a like-for-like replacement for the target man. Now, the manager has brought in a different kind of attacker who can contribute at St. James’ Park.

Howe added: “I’m delighted to sign Anthony. He’s a top, top talent.

“I’m really excited to work with him, to develop him, and I’m looking forward to seeing what he can do in a Newcastle shirt.”

Gordon has left Everton with 78 appearances and seven goals for the club to his name. His first Newcastle appearance could come on February 4 when they host West Ham.

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