Eddie Howe didn't deny it. He didn't confirm it either — but the language he chose when asked about Anthony Gordon's future at Newcastle tells you everything about where things stand.
"I will not play any player I don't think is 100% committed to the club," Howe told Chronicle Live this week. He quickly added he wasn't singling out Gordon specifically. But that qualifier does more work than a denial would. When a manager feels the need to clarify he's not talking about a specific player, he's already talking about that player.
The £75m question
Arsenal have been linked with the England winger for several weeks, with Bayern Munich also mentioned as interested. According to The Sun, Gordon would prefer a move to London if he does leave St James' Park — and Newcastle are reportedly valuing him at around £75 million as an opening position.
That's a significant ask. But Gordon is 23, England-capped, and operating at a level that justifies the conversation. For Arsenal, who need more cutting edge after grinding out a 1-0 aggregate win over Sporting CP with a goalless second leg at home, a winger of his directness would address a real problem. Newcastle's willingness to sell is the bigger unknown.
Howe's broader point — that high-profile players have to perform through transfer noise, not hide behind it — is reasonable. But collective form at Newcastle has dipped, and unresolved futures don't help. Gordon has been one of their most consistent attackers. Losing him mid-rebuild would hurt.
Academy exit: Sam Chapman heads stateside
Separately, Arsenal have confirmed that youth defender Sam Chapman is leaving the club's academy to join Georgia Southern University's men's soccer team. The 'Boro, as the university team calls itself, welcomed him on Instagram with an eagle emoji and a warm post.
Chapman made 10 starts and two substitute appearances for Arsenal's U18s this season, with a debut for the U21s against Sunderland in March. His contract was due to expire in June regardless.
- Anthony Gordon linked with Arsenal and Bayern Munich
- Newcastle reportedly valuing Gordon at £75m
- Howe: won't play anyone not fully committed to the club
- Sam Chapman leaving Arsenal academy for Georgia Southern University
The Gordon situation is the one that matters for the summer market. At £75m, it's not a straightforward deal for anyone — but Arsenal's need for a goal threat and Gordon's reported London preference makes the logic of a deal hard to ignore.
