Newcastle United can swiftly fill the vacancy left behind by Anthony Gordon's sale with one of Europe's brightest young talents05:00, 02 Jun 2026An already hectic summer for Newcastle United grew considerably more complicated following Anthony Gordon's move to Barcelona for around £70million. However, Eddie Howe could address the void left on the left wing by the Liverpudlian with a bold move for Real Betis ace Abde Ezzalzouli.‌The Moroccan winger has enjoyed a stellar campaign for Betis, playing a key role in helping the club qualify for the Champions League for the first time in 21 years. He notched 15 goals and 13 assists across 45 appearances, and reports indicate the 24-year-old is a 'top target' for Newcastle, who would need to trigger a £51m release clause.‌Sources in Spain have revealed that Newcastle scouts were present to watch Ezzalzouli in matches against Real Oviedo and Elche this season. The Moroccan international contributed to victories in both fixtures, chipping in with a goal and an assist in the win over Oviedo.‌Per Chronicle Live, Betis officials are fully aware of Newcastle's interest in Ezzalzouli, yet no formal offer has been lodged thus far. There are, however, a number of stumbling blocks.Newcastle would be splashing a substantial sum on a player who operates almost exclusively on the left flank. The former Barcelona youngster has featured as a right-sided attacker on just 15 occasions in Spain, and only once as a centre-forward.JOIN US ON FACEBOOK! Latest news, analysis and much more on Mirror Football's Facebook page‌He won't offer Howe the flexibility that Gordon provided. Harvey Barnes would also compete with Ezzalzouli for the left flank, and the Moroccan might favour joining a club where he can immediately claim the position as his own.The winger has netted 41 goals and registered 27 assists across his 219 senior appearances, and he certainly doesn't lack self-belief.Speaking last year ahead of Real Betis's Conference League final against Chelsea, Ezzalzouli said he could cope with the pressure at the highest level, which could present a stumbling block given Newcastle's inability to offer European football next season.‌He told Diario de Sevilla: "I like criticism to shut them up. Whoever they put in front of me, I'll eat them alive." Chelsea and Manchester City, alongside Everton and Aston Villa, are reportedly interested, but according to Spanish publication Sport (via Sport Witness), Ezzalzouli would struggle to reject Newcastle.The St James' Park hierarchy have demonstrated their powers of persuasion on numerous occasions previously and can deploy their charm to swiftly replace Gordon and secure him as their first summer acquisition. Newcastle may need to act quickly, with Alan Shearer believing the club have little room for mistakes this summer.‌"It's a really, really important summer for Newcastle. I do believe last summer's transfer window has set them back two years but we have to accept that and get on with it," he said. "They're still in a healthy position, and it'll be a really important, interesting summer ahead for Newcastle."I don't think they'll go for £70million pound players. I think they will go for young, up-and-coming, energetic, point-to-prove players like when they signed Lewis Hall and Tino Livramento.Article continues below"They need to get six or seven players out and they need to get six or seven in. And I think that's players that are either going to be playing, or without doubt, pushing for first-team spots. It does need a refresh, there's no doubt."Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.