Transfer speculation keeps growing around Newcastle United winger and makeshift striker Anthony Gordon, who is now steadily linked with a potential summer move to Arsenal.
The links first emerged during the winter window, and a fresh report from Indykaila News on X points toward discussions between the clubs already being in place and progressing, while also suggesting Newcastle have issued a significant counter-demand.
“BREAKING BOMBSHELL!!! 🚨🔥 Arsenal are CLOSE to pulling off the transfer for Anthony Gordon!!! 💣 Newcastle just dropped the HAMMER — they’re DEMANDING Gabriel Martinelli in return! They’re ready to make Martinelli the HIGHEST-PAID player at the club,” Indykaila News posted on X.
Neither club has publicly confirmed negotiations, and if I had to guess, the Magpies’ demand shouldn’t only include Martinelli but also a sizable fee on par with the Brazil international in order for Gordon to be let go.
Gordon remains under a long-term contract at St James’ Park—for longer than expected—and has developed into a key player under Eddie Howe, as he’s been able to operate and perform on either wing and as the most advanced forward on Newcastle’s offence.
The Magpies hierarchy has repeatedly indicated they are not inclined to sanction major sales without substantial compensation.
According to the aforementioned report, any progress on a Gordon sale would hinge on Arsenal’s Gabriel Martinelli being included in a deal. The Brazilian winger, 24, has been a consistent attacking presence for the Gunners, and would add pace and some goal-scoring prowess from wide areas to Newcastle’s forward line.
The Magpies, however, still seem reluctant to weaken their squad unless a high-value asset is secured in return, whether that’s Martinelli or anyone else coming from elsewhere. According to the report, Martinelli could become Newcastle’s highest-paid player, which underscores the scale of the supposed proposal and a potential roadblock for his arrival—even though the report says NUFC would be willing to go that far.
As of now, the information remains limited to the social media report, and no other reports have been issued by either Arsenal or Newcastle regarding negotiations or player exchange discussions.
