Liverpool want to sign £75m-rated forward after completing deal for Martin Zubimendi - Reports
Liverpool are progressing in their pursuit of Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi, according to reports from TBR Football. The Spanish international is expected to cost around €60 million (£51 million), but the Reds are ready to invest heavily to bolster their midfield options.
After a relatively muted start to their summer transfer window, Liverpool have reportedly burst into action with new manager Arne Slot, who succeeded Jurgen Klopp, and are close to landing their first major signing — Zubimendi. After acclimatizing to his new role and assessing the players at his disposal during a pre-season tour of the United States, Slot is now preparing to bring in reinforcements.
However, midfield is not the only area they are planning to strengthen. The Reds, according to GiveMeSport, are eyeing a move for Newcastle United forward Anthony Gordon. The Merseyside club are willing to offer around £75 million for the 23-year-old, though Newcastle has placed a £100 million price tag on him. Gordon registered 12 goals and 11 assists in 48 games in the 2023-24 season.
Why are Liverpool planning to sign Anthony Gordon?
Liverpool are already blessed with wingers like Luis Diaz, Diogo Jota, Cody Gakpo, and Mohamed Salah, but the club's interest in Gordon is telling of the Newcastle star's caliber.
The 23-year-old, who scored 11 goals and provided 10 assists in the Premier League last season, is reportedly seen as an enticing option by the English Premier League giants.
Although financial challenges at Newcastle could influence their willingness to negotiate, Liverpool remain keen on securing the winger, who is eager to join his boyhood club.
Gordon has been one of the standout wingers in the league over the past season. His ability to carry the ball, the directness in his approach, and his finishing from the edge of the area would make LFC a real threat on the break.
However, his arrival will bring doubts over Luis Diaz and Diogo Jota's future at the club. Colombia international Diaz was a constant in the club's starting lineup last season under Klopp, but Portugal's Jota had an underwhelming season, owing to injuries (knee collateral ligament tear and muscle problems). Cody Gakpo could be another victim, although he was impeccable for the Netherlands at EURO 2024, scoring three goals and providing an assist in six games.
It remains to be seen how Slot accommodates these wing options together and stitches together a well-oiled system. But if any of the currently available options are to depart the club, Liverpool would need to be extremely cautious with their decision. All of Diaz, Jota, and Gakpo have shown plenty of potential in the past, making them capable of leading the club's attacking mantle.