The landscape of the Premier League transfer market is already shifting toward the summer of 2026, and Manchester United appears ready to ignite a significant tug-of-war with a move for Newcastle United’s star winger, Anthony Gordon.
According to high-level transfer insiders, the Red Devils have placed the England international high on their shortlist, driven by a specific tactical fascination with his versatility. While Gordon is primarily known for his explosive pace and tenacity on the left flank, it is his growing desire to play as a traditional center-forward that has caught the eye of the decision-makers at Old Trafford.
Manchester United’s director of football, Jason Wilcox, is reportedly overseeing a massive financial war chest. Should interim manager Michael Carrick successfully guide the squad into a Champions League spot by the end of this season, the club is prepared to sanction a spending spree in the region of £200 million.
While much of the recent noise has surrounded RB Leipzig’s Ivory Coast sensation Yan Diomande, United is wary of putting all their financial resources into a single deal. Leipzig is currently demanding a staggering €100 million for Diomande, prompting United to look closer to home for proven Premier League talent.
Anthony Gordon represents a highly attractive alternative. Since his £45 million move from Everton to St James’ Park in January 2023, he has transformed into one of the most effective attackers in the league.
To date, he has clocked up 139 appearances for the Magpies, contributing 32 goals and 27 assists. However, it is the “number nine” factor that has become the real talking point.
Reliable sources suggest that Gordon actually relishes the chance to lead the line through the center, and Manchester United believes this adaptability would provide invaluable tactical flexibility to Michael Carrick’s system.
| Anthony Gordon Newcastle Stats | Tally |
| Appearances | 139 |
| Goals | 32 |
| Assists | 27 |
| Original Transfer Fee | £45m |
The interest in Gordon naturally raises questions about other Newcastle stars who have been linked with a move to Manchester. Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimaraes are often mentioned in the same breath as Gordon, but the current intelligence suggests a very different story for the midfield duo.
While Tonali’s agent has hinted that transfer discussions will take place later this year, Manchester United seems to have cooled their interest. Reports indicate that the club is looking for a different profile of midfielder, with Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson emerging as a top choice due to his ability to operate as both a number six and a number eight.
The situation regarding Bruno Guimaraes is even more nuanced. It is widely understood that a verbal agreement exists between the player and Newcastle, stating that the club will entertain offers around the £80 million mark from teams competing in the Champions League.
However, insiders suggest that if the Brazilian midfielder stays within the English top flight, he is far more likely to join Manchester City than Manchester United. Pep Guardiola’s side is also expected to rival United for the signature of Elliot Anderson, further complicating the summer plans for both Manchester giants.
Manchester United’s pursuit of Gordon is a clear signal of intent. They are looking for players who are not only “best in class” in their natural positions but also have the intelligence and physical tools to fill multiple roles during a grueling season.
Gordon’s work rate is legendary, and his evolution from a pure winger into a dangerous central threat mirrors the path taken by some of the game’s greatest attackers. For Newcastle, the challenge will be resisting the lure of a massive profit on a player who has become the heartbeat of their attack.
As the 2025/26 season enters its final stretch, the pressure on Michael Carrick to deliver Champions League football is immense. Without that top-four finish, the planned £200 million investment could be significantly scaled back, potentially leaving the door open for other suitors to swoop in for Gordon.
The player himself seems happy on Tyneside, but the prospect of leading the line for one of the world’s most iconic clubs is a temptation that few can ignore.
Ultimately, the upcoming transfer window feels like a crossroads for both Newcastle and Manchester United. For United, it is about finally assembling a squad capable of sustained title challenges.
For Newcastle, it is about proving they can keep their best players while navigating the complex financial rules of the league. Whether Gordon ends up in the red of Manchester or remains the hero of the Gallowgate End will likely be decided by who can offer the most ambitious vision for his future role on the pitch.
