Bayern Munich have reportedly intensified their pursuit of Newcastle United winger Anthony Gordon, with a formal meeting between the German giants and the player’s representatives scheduled, according to a report from Sky Sport Switzerland.
The Bundesliga club have reportedly identified Gordon as a primary target to revitalise their attacking options under Vincent Kompany.
It is suggested that Bayern are prepared to test Newcastle’s resolve with a significant summer bid, viewing the England international as the ideal profile to bring directness and pace to the Allianz Arena.
Anthony Gordon meeting scheduled ahead of summer Bayern move
Gordon was a notable absentee from Newcastle’s 2-1 defeat to Bournemouth last weekend, officially ruled out with a slight hip injury.
However, his absence has only fueled growing speculation regarding his long-term commitment to the club.
Supporters fear the ex-Everton winger has already had his head turned by the lure of Champions League football in Munich.
In anticipation of a potential exit, Newcastle’s recruitment apparatus has reportedly begun drawing up a shortlist of potential replacements.
High on that list is understood to be Köln breakout star Said El Mala, whose physical profile and goal-scoring exploits in the Bundesliga have drawn interest from Brighton and Hove Albion and Bayern, among others.
While Eddie Howe remains publicly supportive of his star man, the financial reality of Premier League Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) means Newcastle may be forced to make a big-money sale this summer.
If scheduled talks in Munich prove successful, Gordon could become the latest high-profile Englishman to swap the Premier League for the Bundesliga, following in the footsteps of Harry Kane and Eric Dier.
For Newcastle, the priority will shift to ensuring they aren't left short-staffed as they prepare for a pivotal summer of rebuilding.
The club will aim to avoid a similar situation to the one which played out last summer involving Alexander Isak.
Newcastle sit 14th in the Premier League table and look set to miss out on European football altogether next season.
