Newcastle star signs new deal after being linked with Arsenal | OneFootball

Newcastle United winger Anthony Gordon has signed a new long-term contract with the club, putting an end to recent speculation linking him with a move to Arsenal.

The 23-year-old, who joined the Magpies in January 2023 from Everton, has committed his future despite persistent reports, as recently as last month, that Arsenal were closely monitoring his situation.

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 19: Anthony Gordon of Newcastle United reacts during the Premier League match between Newcastle United FC and Brighton & Hove Albion FC at St James’ Park on October 19, 2024 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)

The speculation surrounding Gordon’s future may have been fuelled by his representatives, who perhaps used Arsenal’s name as leverage in securing a more lucrative deal with Newcastle.

This tactic appears to have been successful, as Gordon’s new deal is set to make him one of the club’s highest earners, with terms reportedly worth around £170,000 a week.

Newcastle had made it clear they were intent on keeping Gordon, opening preliminary talks to secure his future after a summer window where the winger was subject to substantial interest.

Sami Mokbel of the Daily Mail reported that while Liverpool showed concrete interest during the summer, Arsenal were also keeping a close eye on the winger’s situation. Newcastle’s valuation, which had already deterred Liverpool, may have similarly dissuaded Arsenal from making any formal approach.

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND: Anthony Gordon of Newcastle United runs with the ball during the Premier League match between Newcastle United FC and Tottenham Hotspur FC at St James’ Park on September 01, 2024. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)

Gordon, who has made 74 appearances for Newcastle since his arrival, scoring 15 goals and registering 11 assists, expressed his satisfaction with the club’s direction. In his statement to the official club website, Gordon said, “I just think the club’s in a great place. Since the takeover [in 2021] it’s just been up and up. Me and the gaffer [Eddie Howe] are a perfect match in terms of style of play. I love it here. I like living here, the team is very suited to me – and I’m here to win a trophy.”

The winger added that winning silverware with Newcastle would be “unbelievable” given the fans’ long wait, emphasising his desire to be part of a team that brings glory to the club. He highlighted the welcoming nature of the Geordie community, which has helped him and his family settle comfortably in the city.

BERLIN, GERMANY: Bukayo Saka of England is consoled by Anthony Gordon after defeat during the UEFA EURO 2024 final match between Spain and England at Olympiastadion on July 14, 2024. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)

Despite his optimism for the future, Gordon will need to refocus his efforts on rediscovering his best form. After a successful campaign last season, in which he scored 12 goals and provided 11 assists, the England international has managed only two goal contributions in the first 10 matches of the current season for both club and country.

Newcastle’s relatively manageable start to the season, featuring fixtures against the likes of Southampton, Bournemouth, Wolves, Fulham, and Everton, alongside more challenging encounters with Tottenham, Manchester City, and Brighton, has put some pressure on Gordon to step up as the season progresses.