Barcelona are moving closer towards an unexpected attacking signing after realising that their two preferred striker targets may simply be impossible to secure this summer.
According to fresh reports from SPORT, Barcelona have ‘practically reached an agreement’ to sign Anthony Gordon from Newcastle United.
The Catalan giants initially prioritised major moves for Julian Alvarez and Joao Pedro. But both operations have become extremely difficult for different reasons, forcing the sporting department to seriously rethink its strategy.
A strategic signing
There is growing belief that Gordon could solve multiple problems at once. Barcelona value the fact that the England international can operate both on the left wing and through the middle as a false nine, giving Hansi Flick greater tactical flexibility.
The report suggests that Barça see Gordon as a way to “kill two birds with one stone” the club could later explore lower cost options for the striker position elsewhere.
For several months, Barcelona’s main objective had been to secure a long term replacement for Robert Lewandowski. But reality in the transfer market appears to have changed the club’s thinking significantly.
Contacts have been made
The report explains that Gordon’s representatives had already approached Barcelona weeks ago, but the operation was not viewed as urgent at the time.
Now circumstances have changed dramatically. Barcelona believe that signing the English attacker for under €70m could represent strong value considering his versatility and profile, although no final decision has been made yet.
More importantly, Gordon and his entourage reportedly believe there is a genuine opportunity for him to secure regular playing time in Catalonia, which works in Barcelona’s favour.
The smarter signing?
Although Anthony Gordon may not carry the same glamour as Julian Alvarez or Joao Pedro, the reality is that he could actually be a smarter signing for Barcelona under the current circumstances.
The bottom line
Newcastle need to sell. Gordon wants out. Barcelona need a versatile attacker who can play across the front line.
The agreement is ‘practically reached’. The fee is under €70m. The player is convinced.
Alvarez and Joao Pedro were the dreams. Gordon is the reality. And in this market, reality might just be the smarter move.
