Liverpool Emerge as Frontrunners for Anthony Gordon Transfer
Following a disappointing Premier League campaign that has left them languishing in sixth place, Liverpool are already laying the groundwork for a significant summer rebuild. With the FA Cup providing a temporary distraction this weekend, attention at Anfield is firmly fixed on bolstering the squad ahead of next season. The Reds, who invested a staggering £450 million last summer, are under immense pressure to improve their league form under head coach Arne Slot and sporting director Richard Hughes.
Gordon's Merseyside Preference Gives Liverpool Edge
According to reports from Caughtoffside, Liverpool are now in pole position to secure the signing of Newcastle United winger Anthony Gordon, should the Magpies decide to cash in on the former Everton star. The 23-year-old England international, who could command a fee approaching £100 million, is also attracting interest from Premier League rivals Arsenal and Manchester City. However, Gordon's strong connections to Merseyside are believed to make Liverpool his preferred destination, giving the Reds a crucial advantage in any potential negotiations.
This renewed speculation comes after a previous transfer saga in the summer of 2024, when Liverpool had agreed a deal to sign Gordon to help Newcastle comply with Profit and Sustainability Rules. That move collapsed when the Tyneside club managed to offload Elliot Anderson and Yankuba Minteh instead, removing their immediate financial pressure to sell. Newcastle's stance may be complicated by ongoing tensions related to the Alexander Isak situation, potentially leading them to play hardball in any future discussions.
Celik Rejects Roma Contract, Opening Free Transfer Opportunity
As Liverpool consider a major investment in Gordon, they are simultaneously exploring cost-effective options in the free agent market. Turkish defender Zeki Celik has reportedly rejected a substantial contract extension offer from Roma, according to Italian publication Tuttosport. This decision paves the way for the 28-year-old right-back to leave the Italian capital on a free transfer this summer, with Liverpool among several top European clubs monitoring his situation.
Celik, who previously attracted interest from Arsenal, Manchester United, and Tottenham during his time at Lille, offers valuable versatility with his ability to operate both as a full-back and in central defence. This dual capability makes him an attractive proposition for Liverpool, who failed to strengthen their defensive options during the January transfer window. The Reds face competition from Serie A giants AC Milan and Juventus for Celik's signature, but the opportunity to secure an experienced international defender without a transfer fee represents significant value.
Pressure Mounts for Liverpool Revival
With their title defence faltering badly, Liverpool's hopes for salvaging something from the current season now rest on securing a top-four or top-five finish and pursuing silverware through cup competitions. The potential acquisitions of Gordon and Celik would address two key areas of concern for Slot's squad, providing both attacking flair and defensive reinforcement. As the club prepares for their upcoming Premier League fixture against relegation-threatened Nottingham Forest, the behind-the-scenes planning for next season appears to be gathering momentum, with these transfer developments offering hope to supporters of a swift return to competitiveness.
