So why have Barca moved for Gordon?
In any case, the La Liga champions additionally had the choice – and nonetheless do – of constructing Marcus Rashford’s mortgage transfer from Manchester United a everlasting one for £26m.
Nonetheless, Barca have to this point prioritised a transfer for his worldwide team-mate, who additionally gives versatility on the left and thru the center, however is three years youthful and on a decrease wage.
There may be additionally a perception throughout the membership that there’s extra to return from Gordon each with and with out the ball.
When Barcelona supervisor Hansi Flick spoke about Newcastle being a “very intense” facet, earlier this season, the 25-year-old may have been amongst these on the forefront of his ideas together with his pace and aggression.
Flick locations as a lot significance on gamers’ work price as their aptitude and Gordon ranks within the prime 40 Premier League forwards for possession gained within the remaining third, excessive pressures utilized and excessive pressures within the opponent’s half this season.
But it’s Gordon’s aim return in Europe which clearly caught the attention of Barca and, certainly, fellow suitors Bayern Munich.
Though there have been just a few penalties alongside the way in which, and he got here up in opposition to some leaky defences, solely Actual Madrid ahead Kylian Mbappe (15) and Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane (14) have scored extra targets within the Champions League this season than Gordon (10).
It’s a stage Gordon has relished, having seemed like somebody who had grown a bit jaded with how the Premier League had turn out to be “so much slower and much more set-piece primarily based”.
“Generally it is about duels – who wins the duels wins the sport – or moments,” he mentioned of the highest flight again in January.
“The Champions League is a little more of an older fashion sport. It is a bit extra soccer primarily based. Groups come and attempt to play correct soccer.”
