Report: Arsenal set to battle Man City in the race to sign £95m forward | OneFootball

Arsenal Target £95m Forward as Man City Circle

Arsenal are exploring a move to outmanoeuvre Manchester City in the pursuit of Newcastle United forward Anthony Gordon, according to Caught Offside. The north London club’s recruitment planning is already underway, despite a season that has placed them four points clear at the Premier League summit and firmly in contention across multiple competitions.

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Mikel Arteta’s message internally has been consistent. Progress must be consolidated, not admired. With Champions League qualification for next season looking highly likely, Arsenal are positioned to attract elite targets. Gordon is understood to be among those admired.

Newcastle Stance Shapes Negotiations

Gordon has grown into a central figure at Newcastle since his transfer from Everton. His performances have elevated him within the England set up and across the Premier League. Newcastle, however, are reluctant sellers.

Caught Offside report that the Magpies could demand up to £95m for the 24 year old. Eddie Howe’s side face uncertainty regarding Champions League qualification, and that context may influence discussions, though there is no indication they will facilitate a departure easily.

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Liverpool are considered frontrunners, a narrative strengthened by Gordon’s childhood allegiance. Yet Arsenal and Manchester City are both attentive to developments, aware that the market for dynamic wide forwards is competitive and unforgiving.

Squad Upgrade or Strategic Risk

From Arsenal’s perspective, Gordon would offer pace, directness and Premier League proven output from the left. Current options include Leandro Trossard, Gabriel Martinelli and Eberechi Eze. Gordon’s profile differs. He is aggressive in transition, relentless without possession and capable of stretching defensive lines.

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The question lies in valuation. At £95m, scrutiny is inevitable. One view within recruitment circles is that such a fee demands transformational impact. Another suggests Gordon’s age, homegrown status and upward trajectory justify premium pricing.

Arteta’s admiration is believed to be genuine. Whether that translates into formal action may depend on Newcastle’s flexibility and Arsenal’s broader budget allocation. Reinforcement appears likely. The identity of that reinforcement remains fluid.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

Gordon’s qualities are clear. He brings intensity, courage in one v one situations and a willingness to carry the ball into dangerous areas. Those traits suit Arteta’s emphasis on width and pressing discipline.

However, £95m is a serious commitment. Arsenal have spent heavily in recent seasons, and fans will expect precision rather than indulgence. If Gordon arrives, he must raise the ceiling, not merely add competition.

There is also rivalry context. Outmanoeuvring Manchester City in the market carries symbolic weight. Yet symbolism cannot override sustainability. Supporters may prefer a balanced approach, securing one marquee addition while reinforcing depth elsewhere.

That said, Arsenal are operating from a position of strength. Top of the league, present in Europe and ambitious in outlook. If the club believe Gordon accelerates the project, confidence in their recruitment model remains high. The priority will be ensuring value aligns with vision.