Newcastle United prioritising move for Abde Ezzalzouli as Anthony Gordon replacement | OneFootball

Newcastle United are quickly drawing up contingency plans for life after Anthony Gordon, with Real Betis star Abde Ezzalzouli identified as their primary target.

The Magpies face a challenging summer after an inconsistent Premier League campaign saw them finish 12th and miss out on crucial European revenue.

As a result, the St James’ Park outfit must balance their books under strict Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR), likely necessitating high-profile departures.

Anthony Gordon is set to join Barcelona for €80m, and Eddie Howe’s side are wasting no time in searching for a replacement.

Enter Abde Ezzalzouli. The 24-year-old Moroccan international has just enjoyed a career-best campaign, registering 15 goals and 13 assists in 43 appearances in all competitions.

His explosive directness, aggression on the ball, and ability to exploit open space offer a near-seamless transition from Gordon’s electric style on the left flank.

Newcastle are reportedly prepared to trigger Abde’s €60m release clause if they cannot agree a deal with Betis, who are expected to hold out for the highest possible fee, especially with Barcelona still holding a sell-on clause.

However, any deal will not be straightforward for the Tyneside club. Newcastle are likely to face strong competition from Premier League rivals Aston Villa, who can offer European football under Unai Emery.

Reports from Spain also suggest the ‘extraordinary’ Abde is settled in La Liga and hesitant to move abroad.

Nevertheless, Newcastle remain determined to push ahead when Gordon’s move to Spain materialises as expected, aiming to ensure Howe’s frontline retains its spark ahead of next season.