Abde Ezzalzouli: Everything you need to know about Newcastle’s ‘decisive’ target to replace Anthony Gordon
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Credit: Imago Thu 28 May 2026 11:15, UK Abde Ezzalzouli has emerged as Newcastle United’s target to replace the outgoing Anthony Gordon this summer. Newcastle were always due to make a big sale this summer, and another could well follow as the financial ramifications of the lack of European football take their toll.Eddie Howe will hope sales can allow him to refresh his squad after what was a hugely disappointing season at St James’ Park.Newcastle transfer chiefs are already eyeing Gordon’s replacement, with a potential move for Ezzalzouli appearing to be moving quickly. 🔄 Newcastle Transfer Update 🔄 Breaking news on deals in progress, signings, departures, and contract news from the Newcastle United boardroom.
VISIT THE NEWCASTLE TRANSFER HUB MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES Who is Abde Ezzalzouli?Aston Villa have also been linked to Ezzalzouli, with Unai Emery potentially set to be looking for his own replacement this summer amid the interest in Morgan Rogers.Newcastle certainly look to be leading the race, however, with the deal seemingly tied into Gordon’s move to Barcelona. He would only ever make 14 appearances for the La Liga giants, and only began to realise his potential over the last two years.This season has seen Ezzalzouli explode, scoring 15 goals and providing 10 assists in 43 appearances across all competitions. — Real Betis Balompié 🌴💚 (@RealBetis) November 5, 2025 The 24-year-old loves to receive the ball out wide and drift inside, offering a ruthless right foot when in sight of goal.Manuel Pellegrini and Xavi lauded Ezzalzouli Barcelona’s confidence in Ezzalzoulli has been demonstrated by the sell-on clause they included in his contract, but he initially appeared to be a future first-team player.The winger was loaned out to Osasuna in 2022, enjoying a season of first-team football in La Liga.“Abde is making the most of his loan spell, he is making a difference, they are very happy in Pamplona, he is being professional and playing very well,” then Barcelona manager, Xavi, said in 2023.“Barca have to ensure that he is at the level he was yesterday, that he is at every game.
When he comes back we will look at him, we will evaluate him and decide what to do with him, he could be a very important player in the future.”— Real Betis Balompié (@RealBetis_en) May 26, 2026 Ultimately, it was not meant to be for Ezzalzouli with the Spanish giants, but he has realised his potential at Real Betis. Earlier this month, Real Betis boss and former Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini said: “When you have a decisive player like him [Ezzalzouli], everything becomes easier; 23 contributions this season demonstrate his quality.”He added: “I am very happy to have him with us, and I hope he stays for as long as possible.” Newcastle may end that hope this summer, but the praise is yet another testament to the extent of the quality of the player who could potentially become St James’ Park’s next hero.