Arsenal lead race of Manchester United-linked £95m winger

Arsenal have emerged as frontrunners in the pursuit of Newcastle United winger Anthony Gordon, according to a report in The Sun, placing them ahead of Manchester United and Liverpool in what could become one of the summer’s most protracted transfer battles.

With the transfer window approaching, Old Trafford chiefs have prioritised reinforcing the left flank after last season’s exit of Alejandro Garnacho and the expected permanent departure of Marcus Rashford to Barcelona. While internal discussions have identified Everton-born Gordon as a potential solution, Arsenal are already laying the groundwork for a formal approach.

The Gunners are readying an opening offer between £75 million and £80 million, sources say, though Newcastle’s valuation remains closer to £95 million. Despite the gap, Mikel Arteta’s side are described as being in “pole position,” buoyed by the manager’s long-standing admiration for the 25-year-old that dates back to Gordon’s formative years at Goodison Park.

Arteta is understood to value Gordon’s tactical flexibility; the England international has featured both as a left-sided wide player and through the middle this term, attributes that fit Arsenal’s fluid attacking system. Gordon, who has two years left on his St James’ Park deal, has publicly expressed contentment on Tyneside, yet Newcastle are open to a sale should their financial demands be met.

Liverpool and Manchester United continue to monitor developments, but any serious move from United would hinge on further player sales and the restructuring of Erik ten Hag’s budget. Casemiro has already confirmed he will leave the club at season’s end, and additional outgoings are anticipated as the club reshapes its squad.

For now, Arsenal’s proactive stance has positioned them at the head of the queue, setting the stage for a high-stakes negotiation that could eclipse the £85 million British record fee for a winger should the deal edge toward Newcastle’s £95 million asking price.