Newcastle have already identified 'dream' Anthony Gordon replacement but he won't come cheap

Newcastle United are firmly in the race to sign one of Europe's most sought-after wingers as they look to replace Anthony Gordon.

Gordon is set to be announced as a Barcelona player on Friday, with Newcastle receiving around £70 million for the England international, who will reportedly double his wages to £300,000 per week.

It will be a tough ask to replace the influential 25-year-old but those behind the scenes at Newcastle have identified a player who continues to attract a huge amount of interest following an impressive campaign at Real Betis.

Abde Ezzalzouli, who will feature for Morocco at this summer's World Cup, recorded 15 goals and 13 assists in 43 appearances for Manuel Pellegrini's side this season.

Betis secured a place in next season's Champions League thanks, in part, to the highly-rated Ezzalzouli, but it looks like Los Verdiblancos will be without their star winger as a host of clubs circle.

A report from TeamTALK claims Chelsea’s ownership group BlueCo are keen alongside Manchester City’s City Football Group.

Borussia Dortmund and RB Leipzig have also monitored Ezzalzouli's progress throughout the season, while Newcastle are said to be in a strong position because of their long-standing interest in the player.

The player is also said to be attracted by Newcastle’s long-term project, as well as the opportunity to play Premier League football.

In terms of value, Ezzalzouli has a release clause of around £52 million, although the previously mentioned report suggests Betis would be willing to negotiate.

It should be noted that Barcelona have a reported 20 per cent sell-on clause for the winger, who joined Real Betis from the Catalan side in 2023.

What will Abde Ezzalzouli bring to the table if he does sign for Newcastle?

The Moroccan, 24, is primarily a left-winger but can also operate on the right.

As well as having the ability to beat defenders in one‑on‑one situations, Ezzalzouli has honed his technical and physical qualities in recent years, with his output across the 2025-26 campaign being a testament to his overall game.

Those behind the scenes at St James' Park have been tracking the 24-year-old for several months. Image credit: Getty

Betis manager Manuel Pellegrini recently gave an insight into Ezzalzouli's progress over the past couple of seasons.

"Ezzalzouli has matured and improved significantly because he listens to what is told to him and doesn't stick to his own opinion. I am very happy for him," he said after Betis' win over Real Mallorca.

"He is a player with great potential and is very open to accepting criticism and advice to develop his performance on the field."