adminNewcastle United are at a key turning point after a disappointing 12th-place finish in the 2025/26 Premier League season and the €70m sale of Anthony Gordon to Barcelona.
While losing one of their key attackers weakens an already struggling forward line, the deal provides sporting director Ross Wilson with major financial power to reshape the squad.
What happens next will depend on how quickly and effectively Newcastle respond in the transfer market.
The club’s attack was already a problem last season, with Newcastle scoring just 45 league goals.
Gordon’s exit removes his pace and pressing threat from the left wing, but his numbers also show inconsistency, with 6 league goals from an Expected Goals (xG) of 9.3 despite 22 goal involvements in all competitions.
However, the deeper issue remains the absence of Alexander Isak, whose presence once stretched defences and gave
Newcastle a more direct attacking structure. Without him, the team relied too heavily on set pieces and second balls, making their attack predictable. Even so, Newcastle still have cover on the left side, with Harvey Barnes and Jacob Ramsey able to fill that role.
Instead of focusing only on replacing Gordon, Newcastle can use the funds to fix more urgent problems.
The right wing was one of the weakest areas in the squad, with Jacob Murphy and Anthony Elanga struggling to deliver consistent goals and final product.
Signing a direct, inside forward who can attack space and stretch defences would bring balance to the front line.
The striker situation is also a priority. Despite heavy investment in forwards, including Nick Woltemade who scored 7 goals, Newcastle still lack a proven, clinical No.9 to replace the impact of Isak.
Strengthening this position remains essential if they want to compete at the top end of the table again.
The timing of Gordon’s sale also works in Newcastle’s favour. Completing the deal early gives Eddie Howe the chance to integrate new signings during pre-season rather than rushing late in the window, something that could improve team cohesion.
If Newcastle fail to recruit top-level attacking talent, they risk another mid-table finish as opposition teams continue to limit the influence of Barnes and Woltemade.
However, if the funds are reinvested wisely, the squad could become significantly more balanced and dangerous, especially if targets like Jarrod Bowen or Savinho are secured for the right side.
Meanwhile, Juventus striker Dušan Vlahović is seriously considering a move to Newcastle United after recent talks with the club.
The forward is in the final stage of his contract and could be available on a free transfer this summer, with Newcastle working to beat rival interest in securing his signature. (Source: Gazzetta dello Sport)
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Abdulhafiz Teslim
