Newcastle United's summer transfer window has become significantly more demanding following Anthony Gordon's £70 million move to Barcelona. However, manager Eddie Howe may have identified the perfect replacement for the left-winger in Real Betis star Abde Ezzalzouli.
Ezzalzouli's Stellar Season
The Moroccan international has enjoyed an outstanding campaign with Betis, playing a pivotal role in securing Champions League qualification for the first time in 21 years. The 24-year-old recorded 15 goals and 13 assists in 45 appearances, catching the attention of Newcastle scouts. Reports indicate that the Magpies view Ezzalzouli as a 'top target' and would need to activate his £51 million release clause to secure his signature.
Sources in Spain confirm that Newcastle representatives attended matches against Real Oviedo and Elche this season, where Ezzalzouli contributed a goal and an assist in the victory over Oviedo. Betis officials are fully aware of Newcastle's interest, though no formal offer has been submitted yet.
Potential Stumbling Blocks
Despite the promising links, several obstacles remain. Ezzalzouli operates almost exclusively on the left flank, having played on the right only 15 times in Spain and just once as a centre-forward. This lack of versatility could be a concern, as Gordon provided Howe with flexibility across the attack. Harvey Barnes also competes for the left-wing position, and Ezzalzouli may prefer a club where he can immediately claim the role as his own.
The winger has amassed 41 goals and 27 assists in 219 senior appearances, demonstrating considerable self-belief. Speaking ahead of Real Betis's Conference League final against Chelsea last year, Ezzalzouli stated: "I like criticism to shut them up. Whoever they put in front of me, I'll eat them alive." This confidence could be a double-edged sword, especially given Newcastle's lack of European football next season.
Interest from Chelsea, Manchester City, Everton, and Aston Villa adds further competition. However, according to Spanish publication Sport, Ezzalzouli would find it difficult to reject Newcastle. The St James' Park hierarchy has shown persuasive power in previous deals and may use their charm to secure the Moroccan as their first summer acquisition.
Urgency and Summer Plans
Newcastle may need to act quickly. Club legend Alan Shearer emphasised the importance of the upcoming window: "It's a really, really important summer for Newcastle. I do believe last summer's transfer window has set them back two years, but we have to accept that and get on with it. They're still in a healthy position."
Shearer added: "I don't think they'll go for £70 million players. I think they will go for young, up-and-coming, energetic, point-to-prove players like when they signed Lewis Hall and Tino Livramento. They need to get six or seven players out and six or seven in. Players that are either going to be playing or pushing for first-team spots. It does need a refresh."
