News Focus
- FC Barcelona have ended their pursuit of Newcastle United winger Anthony Gordon
- Bayern Munich refuse to meet Newcastle’s €80-90 million asking price for the Englishman
- The Bundesliga giants are now weighing up cheaper alternatives including Charles De Ketelaere
- Belgian forward De Ketelaere is valued at roughly €35 million
- Marcus Rashford and Mika Godts also feature on Bayern’s shortlist of targets
German champions Bayern Munich now face less competition in their hunt for a new attacker. Spanish giants FC Barcelona have reportedly pulled out of the race to sign Newcastle United star Anthony Gordon.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the Catalan club stepped back after learning of Newcastle’s huge financial demands. The English side want between €80 million and €90 million for the 25-year-old.
However, the Bavarian club may also walk away from the deal. German outlet Kicker.de reports that Bayern are unwilling to pay such a high fee. As a result, they are looking at other options.
One name on their list is Charles De Ketelaere. The Belgian attacker plays for Atalanta in Italy. He would cost significantly less than Gordon, with Transfermarkt valuing him at around €35 million.
Like Gordon, De Ketelaere can play in several positions across the front line. He can operate on the wings or through the centre as a number ten. When asked about their interest in the player, Bayern did not deny the reports.
De Ketelaere now joins two other names on Bayern’s list. These include Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford, who has been linked with a move to Barcelona, and Ajax youngster Mika Godts.