News Focus
- Newcastle United want Ez Abde from Real Betis to replace Anthony Gordon
- Gordon is set to join Barcelona for €80 million
- Barcelona could earn €12 million if Newcastle pay Abde’s €60 million release clause
- Real Betis might sign Jan Virgili from Mallorca if Abde leaves
- Barcelona own a 40 per cent sell-on clause for Virgili
Newcastle United have begun their search for a replacement for Anthony Gordon. The England winger is expected to complete a transfer to Barcelona this week. The Catalan club will pay €80 million for his signature.
The Magpies have identified Ez Abde as their top target. The 24-year-old Moroccan currently plays for Real Betis. He enjoyed the finest season of his career this year. Reports indicate that Barcelona had previously shown interest in signing him. However, Abde could now head to St James’ Park instead.
Barcelona stand to recover part of the Gordon transfer fee. Abde’s contract at Betis includes a €60 million release clause. If Newcastle trigger this clause, Barcelona will receive 20 per cent of the money. This equals €12 million. The sell-on clause was part of the agreement when Barcelona sold Abde to Betis in 2023.
Newcastle will probably attempt to negotiate a lower fee. Real Betis are reluctant to lose one of their key players. They may refuse to accept less than the full clause amount. Barcelona are hoping Betis remain firm on the price. This would reduce the net cost of the Gordon deal to €68 million.
The transfer could create a domino effect. If Abde joins Newcastle, Betis plan to sign Jan Virgili from Real Mallorca. Barcelona hold a 40 per cent sell-on clause for Virgili. The player has a €12 million relegation release clause that became active this week.
Barcelona would benefit greatly if both transfers occur. However, these deals remain uncertain at present.