Anthony Gordon Breaks Silence on Failed Liverpool Move and Isak’s Transfer Uncertainty
Newcastle United star Anthony Gordon has opened up about his aborted transfer to Liverpool last summer and has shared his thoughts on Alexander Isak’s uncertain future, as the Swedish striker pushes for a move away from St. James’ Park.
Gordon, a boyhood Liverpool supporter, came incredibly close to joining the Reds in 2024 in a deal worth £75 million, as Newcastle scrambled to comply with the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR).
“I Thought I Was Leaving Newcastle” – Gordon
Speaking in a recent interview, Anthony Gordon admitted he believed his transfer to Liverpool was all but done last summer.
“I thought I was leaving Newcastle,” Gordon said. “Everything was moving quickly. There was a moment when I really believed I would become a Liverpool player.”
As part of the complex negotiation, Joe Gomez was expected to move in the opposite direction for £45 million, while Luis Diaz—who had asked to leave Anfield—would have potentially paved the way for Gordon’s arrival. However, Newcastle were able to raise funds elsewhere at the eleventh hour, leading them to pull the plug on the transfer.
“In the end, it didn’t happen. Newcastle found another way to meet PSR requirements, and I stayed. I’m happy where I am now, but it was a surreal experience,” Gordon added.
Gordon on Alexander Isak’s Transfer Saga
Now, just one year later, Alexander Isak is in the spotlight, having told Newcastle that he wants to leave the club during the 2025 summer transfer window. Liverpool have emerged as the frontrunners for his signature, having already had one £120 million bid rejected.
Gordon said he sympathizes with Isak, having gone through the same media and emotional whirlwind last year.
“It’s tough being at the centre of speculation. I feel for Alex [Isak]. It’s mentally draining, and all you want is clarity. But he’s a top player, and wherever he ends up, he’ll be a success.”
Newcastle Pulled Out of Gordon Deal Due to PSR Relief
The Gordon-to-Liverpool transfer was close to completion last summer because Newcastle United faced pressure from the Premier League to comply with financial regulations. The Magpies needed to offload a major asset to avoid sanctions.
When Newcastle managed to raise the necessary funds elsewhere, possibly through other sales or deferred payments, they decided to retain Gordon, one of their key attacking players. As a result:
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Gordon stayed at St. James’ Park
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Joe Gomez remained at Anfield
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Luis Diaz’s exit was postponed (until his 2025 move to Bayern Munich)
No Transfer Speculation for Gordon This Summer
After enduring a summer of speculation in 2024, Gordon is relieved to focus entirely on football this time around.
“It’s nice to be focused on pre-season and not worry about where I might be playing. I can train hard, play football and help the team.”
What’s Next for Alexander Isak?
With Liverpool continuing to pursue Isak, and Newcastle reportedly demanding £150 million, the saga is far from over. Isak has skipped pre-season tours and has been training privately in Spain with former club Real Sociedad, intensifying rumours of a potential transfer.
Newcastle, however, have made it clear that they will only sell on their own terms—and only if a suitable replacement is found.
Conclusion: Gordon Focused, Isak in Limbo
Anthony Gordon’s near-move to Liverpool serves as a reminder of how quickly things can change in the transfer market. While he is now settled at Newcastle, Alexander Isak’s situation mirrors Gordon’s experience, with Liverpool once again circling a top Magpies talent.
With the Premier League 2025/26 season fast approaching, the Isak saga promises to be one of the most closely watched transfer stories of the summer.
