Abdulhafiz TeslimEddie Howe has a major job on his hands at Newcastle United this summer as he looks to put the club’s recent struggles behind them ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.
There is no denying that this has been a difficult and draining year for the Magpies, who had become accustomed to competing under the Champions League lights and challenging for silverware under Howe’s leadership.
A 12th-place finish in the Premier League certainly points to regression, and that decline can be traced back to last summer’s disappointing transfer window, when Newcastle failed to land their primary targets and eventually lost talisman Alexander Isak.
Howe is determined to change that narrative, but Newcastle have already sanctioned the sale of Anthony Gordon to Barcelona for a reported £69m this summer. Finding the right replacement could define the remainder of the transfer window and shape the club’s fortunes next season.
Newcastle could enter talks for Premier League forward
With Gordon now representing Barcelona, Newcastle technical director Ross Wilson understands the importance of securing a suitable successor. The Magpies have already been linked with Spain international Victor Muñoz.
La Liga expert Phil Minshull recently described Muñoz as “one of the pearls of Spanish football” while discussing Newcastle’s interest in the Osasuna star. He possesses the strength, stamina and playing style that could make him a success in the Premier League.
However, Newcastle are yet to make a final decision on how they intend to address Gordon’s departure. Replacing one of the club’s most influential attackers is no easy task, and while Muñoz is regarded as an exciting prospect, questions remain over whether he can immediately deliver the impact required to help Newcastle climb back toward the Premier League’s upper reaches.
According to Caught Offside, Newcastle have now entered the race for Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo. The report claims the Dutch international’s future at Anfield is uncertain following Arne Slot’s departure earlier this month.
Tottenham Hotspur are believed to be preparing an offer worth €70m (£60m) for the Netherlands international, with Spurs currently holding the most advanced interest. Bayern Munich are also reportedly monitoring the situation closely.
Talks are expected after Gakpo’s involvement at the World Cup, and Newcastle believe they could offer the 26-year-old an attractive opportunity.
Why Gakpo could be a Gordon upgrade
In fairness, Gakpo is a different type of player to Gordon. He may not possess the same explosive pace or direct dribbling ability, but he offers a more consistent goal threat and brings a unique blend of creativity, physicality and finishing quality.
Former Liverpool assistant coach Pep Lijnders once praised Gakpo for his “special skillset”, and the Dutchman has continued to justify that reputation since arriving from PSV Eindhoven.
It has been three-and-a-half years since Liverpool won the race for his signature following his breakout performances at the World Cup in Qatar. Since then, he has established himself as a key figure at Anfield, recording 50 goals and 23 assists in 180 appearances across all competitions.
Capable of operating on the left wing or through the middle as a central striker, Gakpo combines power, intelligence and clinical finishing. While he lacks Gordon’s blistering speed, he possesses the qualities needed to fill the void left by the England international.
Neither Gordon nor Gakpo produced their very best football this season, but both have consistently shown enough quality to compete at the highest level. There is a reason Barcelona signed Gordon, and there is also a reason Bayern Munich are considering a move for Gakpo.
Last season, as Liverpool lifted the Premier League title, Gakpo scored 18 goals and provided seven assists across all competitions. He proved to be one of the division’s most dangerous attacking players, particularly when operating from the left flank.
Despite Liverpool’s struggles this campaign, Gakpo remains one of the Premier League’s most effective forwards. His ability to score goals, create chances and influence matches in multiple positions could make him an ideal addition for Newcastle as they look to launch a resurgence next season.
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Abdulhafiz Teslim
