Anthony Gordon made his feelings crystal clear after Newcastle agreed to transfer

As Liverpool’s triumphant Premier League campaign approaches its climax, the wisdom of Arne Slot’s restrained transfer strategy has been vindicated. The Dutch manager’s decision to maintain squad continuity following Jürgen Klopp’s departure now appears inspired, with the Reds’ core group delivering performances that have them on the cusp of domestic glory.

Yet beneath this success lies an unresolved tactical question that may resurface this summer – does Liverpool’s left flank still require reinforcement?

The Anthony Gordon saga of last summer’s transfer window lingers as a fascinating ‘what if’ scenario. When Newcastle’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) crisis made the England winger briefly available, Liverpool explored a deal that would have seen Joe Gomez move in the opposite direction.

Though the transfer never materialized, the underlying rationale remains valid twelve months later. Luis Díaz’s mercurial form and Cody Gakpo’s injury-disrupted season have highlighted the need for more consistent production from Liverpool’s left-sided attackers.

Gordon’s own campaign at St James’ Park has mirrored this inconsistency. With six goals and six assists, his output matches rather than exceeds what Díaz and Gakpo have provided.

However, the 24-year-old’s previous season – 11 goals and 15 assists – demonstrates the ceiling that continues to intrigue Liverpool’s recruitment team. That explosive productivity, combined with Gordon’s relentless work rate and tactical flexibility, makes him an ideal fit for Slot’s high-intensity system.

Newcastle’s circumstances have changed dramatically since last summer’s PSR fire sale. The sales of Yankuba Minteh to Brighton and academy graduate Elliot Anderson to Nottingham Forest provided the necessary financial relief, allowing the Magpies to retain their prized winger.

Gordon’s emotional Instagram response to Anderson’s departure – “Gunna miss you lad” – hinted at his attachment to the Newcastle project. With Champions League qualification now within reach, Eddie Howe’s side enters this summer from a position of strength rather than desperation.

Interestingly, Minteh’s subsequent development at Brighton presents Liverpool with an alternative solution. The Gambian international, who flourished under Slot during their time together at Feyenoord, has registered five goals and four assists in limited minutes this season.

His familiarity with the manager’s methods and explosive potential make him a logical target should Liverpool pursue attacking reinforcements.

Yet Gordon’s profile remains uniquely appealing. His Premier League-proven quality, English nationality, and relentless pressing make him an archetypal Liverpool forward. The winger’s ability to play across the front line and his improving decision-making in the final third suggest his game would translate seamlessly to Anfield.

While his statistical output this season hasn’t matched last year’s heights, underlying metrics reveal a player creating high-quality chances and demonstrating improved defensive contributions.

Liverpool’s summer business will inevitably be shaped by their title outcome and Champions League status. Slot has hinted at more ambitious recruitment after last year’s cautious approach, potentially reopening the door for Gordon.

However, Newcastle’s asking price – likely exceeding £60 million given his contract length and homegrown status – presents a significant obstacle. The Magpies’ potential return to Europe’s elite competition would further strengthen their negotiating position.

The emergence of young talents like Ben Doak and Kaide Gordon may influence Liverpool’s thinking. Slot has shown willingness to integrate academy products, potentially reducing the urgency for expensive wide reinforcements.

Yet with Mohamed Salah’s future still uncertain and Díaz attracting interest from abroad, the left wing remains an area where Liverpool could seek upgrades.

Gordon’s development trajectory suggests his best years still lie ahead. His combination of pace, directness, and improving end product mirrors the attributes that made Sadio Mané so devastating in Liverpool’s system.

While not yet at that elite level, the Newcastle forward possesses the raw materials to thrive under Slot’s guidance.

As Liverpool plan for another title defense and European campaign, the Gordon question persists. Last summer’s flirtation may have been born of Newcastle’s financial necessity, but the footballing rationale remains compelling.

Whether Liverpool reignites their interest likely depends on Newcastle’s willingness to sell and Slot’s assessment of his current options. One thing seems certain – if Gordon becomes available, Liverpool’s recruitment team will be paying close attention.

The coming months may reveal whether last summer’s near-miss was merely a temporary dalliance or the precursor to a more serious pursuit.

For now, Liverpool fans can enjoy their team’s success while quietly wondering how Gordon might have fit into this triumphant side. The answer to that question may yet become reality if the stars align this summer.