Everton winger Anthony Gordon insists he never wanted to leave last summer despite interest from Newcastle United and Chelsea. ChronicleLive reported in July how the Magpies were considering a bid for the 21-year-old.
However, that offer never materialised but Chelsea did see a £45million proposal rejected by the Toffees. Everton turned down an astronomical sum for a player who only had one season as a first-team regular in professional football.
Gordon has not allowed rumours regarding his future to distract from his performances on the pitch. The wideman has enjoyed a fine start to the campaign, bagging twice to hit back at critics who questioned his ability amid the transfer links.
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It is unclear whether Newcastle remain interested in Gordon as Everton have reportedly slapped a £60million price tag on their asset. Speaking after England under-21s 3-1 win against Germany, the Everton man claimed he was “never desperate” to leave his boyhood club.
“That’s (speculation) part and parcel of football,” Gordon told reporters post-match. “When you’re doing well there’s always going to be speculation. But the place is so good that it’s never been a case of being desperate to leave Everton.
“We’re in a completely different place to last year. It’s class, the morale is unbelievable and I couldn’t speak highly enough of it. We’ve made really good signings; people and players. There’s just a feel-good (atmosphere) around the place.
“I like playing with pressure. I feel I thrive on it. If I want to be a top player, I have to do that regardless. I feel I’ve handled it well but I can still score more goals and stuff.”
Earlier this month Toffees manager Frank Lampard revealed contract talks are at a preliminary stage. He said: “The club are speaking with Anthony and Anthony’s people to see if there is a solution.”
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