Newcastle United have agreed to let Barcelona spread the cost of signing Anthony Gordon over the duration of his contract at the Nou Camp. The Spanish giants will settle the initial £70 million fee in instalments between now and 2031.
Barcelona's savvy deal
Barcelona, who have debts of more than £2 billion, insisted on the deal being structured this way. They have outbid German giants Bayern Munich by £10 million and wanted some goodwill from Newcastle in return. Bayern CEO Jan-Christian Dreesen was willing to spend £60 million on Gordon but wasn't prepared to get involved in a bidding war for the England international.
Gordon is undergoing a medical in Spain, having agreed a five-year deal. The transfer includes bonuses paid to Gordon, depending on what he achieves with the Spanish champions.
Newcastle's future cut
Newcastle will receive a percentage of any future sale of the 25-year-old. Everton had a sell-on clause inserted into the £45 million deal which saw them sell Gordon to Newcastle, which will see them earn 15 per cent from the winger's switch to Barcelona.
Impact on Marcus Rashford
Signing Gordon has cast doubt over the immediate future of Marcus Rashford. Rashford revived his flagging career following a successful season on loan with Barcelona. Barcelona have an option to make the move permanent, having agreed a £26 million fee with Manchester United. But considering Rashford is on wages of more than £300,000 a week, signing Gordon would prove less expensive in the long run.
Rashford's representatives remain relaxed about what happens next. Talks between United and Barcelona are still taking place, and United believe Barca have the money required to sign him.
Gordon's new role
Should Rashford return, he and Gordon likely wouldn't be in competition for a starting place. Barcelona boss Hansi Flick is considering using Gordon as a striker next season, following the departure of Robert Lewandowski. This is something Gordon's representatives discussed with Barcelona sporting director Deco during negotiations.
There is also speculation Raphinha could leave the Nou Camp, improving Rashford's chances of remaining with the Catalan club, despite scoring 55 goals in 90 games for Barca over the last two seasons. The Brazilian turns 30 in December, and Barca could look to cash in to balance the books.
