Barcelona have assured Anthony Gordon's representatives that there will be no problems registering their client for the new season. Gordon's transfer was confirmed as early as May, but he has still not received a squad number with the La Liga season kicking off in just over a week.
Gordon's move from Newcastle
Gordon joined Barca from Newcastle United in a deal worth up to £69.3million, signing a five-year contract. The 25-year-old's World Cup campaign with England ensured a delayed start to his pre-season, as he joined up with his new team-mates earlier this week.
He may have some way to go to prove his match fitness following time off, but concerns have arisen about whether he would be available anyway. The Catalan club have previously had problems registering players as they look to abide by La Liga finance rules, with Dani Olmo famously missing a significant stretch of a season as a result.
Registration assurances
SPORT report that Barcelona are 'registering players one by one' and that the club have relayed assurances that upcoming exits will leave enough salary space to include Gordon in their plans for the season. The former Everton youngster is said to be one of the highest earners at the club.
World Cup winner Ferran Torres is set to depart Camp Nou for Paris Saint-Germain, with his exit said to be significant in providing some financial flexibility, alongside other moves. Torres scored 21 times in 49 appearances under Hansi Flick last season, but is set to leave after entering the final 12 months of his deal.
Barcelona's transfer plans
Barca have added Gordon and Karim Adeyemi this summer, with Deco reluctant to offer the Spain international a new deal due to the financial ramifications, per the Athletic. Former Chelsea and Barcelona midfielder Deco met with Gordon's agents, alongside his associates Bojan Krkic and Joao Amaral. They discussed the transfer market but also Gordon's position.
Barcelona's registration concerns could intensify given their ambitious transfer market plans. They have launched a bid to sign Rodri from Manchester City and want to bring Joao Cancelo back to the club following his loan from Al Hilal last term.
In addition to Torres, Liverpool's loan signing of Ronald Araujo has provided Barcelona to the opportunity to deregister the player. The Uruguay international is set to ensure significant savings ahead of the club registering their most expensive player this summer in Gordon.
Gordon was joined by Spain internationals Gavi, Joan Garcia and Eric Garcia when he returned to training earlier in the week. He is set to be joined by more World Cup winners on Wednesday, with two more pre-season friendlies against FC Basel and Al Ahly ahead of the club's first La Liga match against Elche.
It seems the heat may take some adjusting to for Gordon. Asked about his first session, he said: "Very good, very warm."
