Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has advised striker Anthony Gordon to stay focused amidst speculation linking him to a summer transfer to Arsenal.
An early morning report indicated that the 25-year-old, who netted four goals in last week’s Champions League playoff first-leg against Qarabag, is a target for the title-contending Gunners.
Howe, still navigating the aftermath of Alexander Isak’s move to Liverpool last summer, is keen to avoid a similar situation but acknowledges the limitations on his control over these matters.
The head coach, whose team will face Gordon’s old club Everton in the Premier League this Saturday, stated: “I’m not sure there’s much I can do about it. I haven’t seen the story, so it’s news to me.”
“We’re in the middle of the season, facing some of the biggest games of his career. Who knows what could happen internationally this summer?”
“He doesn’t have time to get distracted. He needs to focus on the upcoming game and aim to perform at his best.”
Gordon, who dismissed transfer rumors earlier this month after signing a “long-term” deal in October 2024, aims to maintain his strong form to earn selection for Thomas Tuchel’s England squad for the summer World Cup, and Howe hopes ongoing speculation won’t disrupt his focus.
When asked if he was concerned about the potential impact of the rumors on Gordon, Howe replied: “Only if he pays attention to them. In today’s environment, speculation is inevitable.”
“I probably miss about 90% of what’s out there—players likely see more than I do—but being a top player at this level, speculation is part of the deal.”
“You must block it out and concentrate on football, especially given our busy schedule. There’s no room for distractions; we need to stay entirely focused on each match.”
– Premier League Power Rankings: Chelsea rises, Liverpool falls based on performance
– Premier League summer transfers: A mix of highs and lows, or patience is key?
As Howe and his players awaited the confirmation of their Champions League round of 16 opponents—later identified as Barcelona—he reflected on the plethora of transfer rumors surrounding his squad, including players like Tino Livramento, Lewis Hall, Malick Thiaw, Sandro Tonali, and Nick Woltemade, among others.
He remarked: “You tell me. It’s your industry creating those stories. I think it ultimately doesn’t matter. It really depends on how the players react to it.”
“If they let it affect them, that’s negative. But I believe our players are strong enough to disregard it.”