Sean Dyche is understood to have sanctioned Anthony Gordon’s imminent £45m move to Newcastle, according to the PA.
What’s the latest Newcastle United transfer news?
The former Burnley boss is set to be announced as Everton’s seventh permanent manager in eight years, replacing Frank Lampard at Goodison Park.
Still, even before confirmation of his arrival on Merseyside, a deal to take the winger up to St James’ Park was struck on Saturday.
It is thought Gordon – who Nothing but Newcastle first revealed interest in back in July – will cost an initial £40m, with a further £5m available to Everton in potential add-ons.
While Dyche has not had been officially announced at Everton, however, the 51-year-old is believed to have given go-ahead for Gordon’s exit.
Is Anthony Gordon worth £40m?
At this stage, you’d have to say probably not.
The winger has fallen out of a poor Everton first-team this season and has even admitted the money being talked about during Chelsea’s interest in him over the summer was “absolutely crazy”.
Still, that is not taking into account potential.
At only 21, there is pretty of room for Gordon to grow and some of his performances last season certainly point to a player capable of making a difference. The winger scored four goals – including a vital winner against Manchester United – while registering two assists in what was a breakout season in a team fighting relegation.
Noted for his work off the ball too, Eddie Howe has certainly earned the right to be trusted in the transfer market. Having done a remarkable job in coaching Joelinton, Joe Willock, Fabian Schar and Miguel Almiron to their best performances to date, the prospect of Gordon developing under Howe is an exciting notion.
What has been said about Anthony Gordon?
Speaking to talkSPORT earlier this week, pundit Danny Murphy backed Gordon to “absolutely fly” at Newcastle.
“I can see it. I think it would be a brilliant signing,” he said.
“I’m a big fan of his. I watched him a lot last season and he was Everton’s best player by a mile.
He’s started the season OK, but he’s not played a lot recently which has bamboozled me, because he threatens the goal.
“I have heard a couple of Everton fans talking about his work ethic, which I find absolutely bizarre because I’ve never seen him play and not give absolutely everything. His tracking back, his press, his work ethic is there.
“He’s got talent, he’s got lovely balance, he goes both ways, he can play off the right, off the left or as a No.10. He gets in there. His end product needs some work, but he’s 21.
“Under Eddie Howe and in a good side, he could fly.”
