Newcastle United are weighing up a move for Real Betis winger Abde Ezzalzouli, who was once hailed as a 'marvel' by Barcelona legend Xavi Hernandez. The Magpies have several options on their transfer radar as they look to replace Anthony Gordon on the left-hand side of their forward line.
Newcastle's Search for a Winger
While losing Victor Munoz to Liverpool was a blow for Eddie Howe and sporting director Ross Wilson, they have other irons in the fire, including Real Betis' Abde Ezzalzouli. The Morocco winger has been scouted several times by Newcastle, although he has had to pull out of his country's World Cup campaign after picking up a knee injury.
Ezzalzouli's Rise at Barcelona
Ezzalzouli came through the ranks at Heracles in Spain before earning a move to Barcelona in 2021, where he worked under legendary Spanish midfielder Xavi. The 113-times capped Spain international was at the helm at the Nou Camp for three years and handed Ezzalzouli his first taste of action for the Catalan giants. He was quick to make an impression as one of several exciting new stars.
Speaking after a win over Osasuna in 2021, Xavi was keen to praise the youngster. "Abde is extraordinary, as well as Nico and Gavi too," he said. "The youngsters are supporting the team, they are the ones who make the difference, and that is difficult to digest. Abde is a dagger, a marvel, a surprise. It is great news but I already said that it is also the negative that young people are the ones who stand out the most."
Move to Real Betis and Impressive Form
Ezzalzouli moved on to Betis in 2023 and has become one of La Liga's most dangerous wingers, scoring 15 goals and adding 13 assists in all competitions last season. He has a release clause believed to be in the region of £50m, which makes him significantly more expensive than Munoz, but the 24-year-old would also come with plenty of experience.
