Liverpool transfer news as Anthony Gordon decision made amid $34m defender 'discount'

Liverpool transfer news as Anthony Gordon decision made amid $34m defender 'discount'

Liverpool transfer news as the Reds make a call over Newcastle ace Anthony Gordon, while a reduction in price for a defender could bring them to the table.

Liverpool has everything in place to begin its transfer planning in earnest. A new-look recruitment department has taken shape, and Arne Slot is installed in the Anfield hot-seat.

Slot himself won't take the leading role in transfer decisions, although the squad will ultimately be assembled with the aim of best enabling the new coach to get results. Meanwhile, prospective signings now have certainty over who they would be playing under if they made the switch.

Between the Dutchman, Michael Edwards, new sporting director Richard Hughes and others, the big calls can now start to be made. A decision has reportedly already been taken in respect of Newcastle United star Anthony Gordon.

Meanwhile, a defender's price has reportedly come down quite substantially, with the Reds now firmly in the frame for his signing. Here is the verdict on the transfer gossip to emerge around the Reds today.

Anthony Gordon (Newcastle United)

Newcastle United recently found out it would not enjoy any kind of European football next season, having missed out on the Conference League by virtue of Manchester United's unlikely FA Cup final triumph over Manchester City. That's an undoubted blow to the Magpies' accounts.

But while Newcastle could be compelled to sell one or two big names, Liverpool has reportedly made a decision not to pursue Gordon. That's according to 90min.

The Reds had been linked with a sensational big-money swoop for Gordon, who has impressed massively since making the move from Everton. The 23-year-old previously spent time in Liverpool's academy system.

But while a wide midfielder or forward will be on the summer shopping list, Liverpool considers a deal for Gordon would be too expensive and too difficult to agree with Newcastle. However, Crysencio Summerville of Leeds United reportedly could come under genuine consideration.

Should Newcastle's financial situation deteriorate in terms of meeting Premier League spending rules, perhaps Liverpool could still decide to pounce. But barring that kind of fire sale scenario, signing Gordon always seemed like a long shot.

With Edwards back involved, Liverpool will likely look to attract a similar kind of profile to Gordon, but one step earlier along the chain. Having moved to St James' Park, his price has spiraled to unrealistic levels, and the Reds will be on the lookout for somebody who can develop at Anfield in an equivalent fashion. Whether Summerville fits that bill is open to discussion.