Rousing the Kop

Liverpool should axe Gakpo and sign the fastest player in Champions League to help Arne Slot - opinion

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Anthony Gordon’s Record 37.92km/h Pace Could Transform Arne Slot’s Liverpool Attack

Anthony Gordon's blistering speed of 37.92km/h, the fastest recorded in the Champions League this season, positions him as a game-changer for Arne Slot's Liverpool side, potentially revolutionizing their attack amid uncertainties with key wingers[1].



The 24-year-old Newcastle United star, a boyhood Liverpool fan despite his Everton roots, has dazzled in Europe, scoring against top sides like Barcelona, Benfica, and Bayer Leverkusen. Only elite forwards Kylian Mbappé, Harry Kane, and Erling Haaland have outscored him in the competition. This season, Gordon boasts 10 goals and 4 assists in 34 appearances across all fronts, with 11 goals and 10 assists in his prior Premier League campaign[3][4].

Liverpool are frontrunners in the race for a £95m summer transfer, ahead of rivals Arsenal, Manchester City, and even Manchester United, who are prepared to bid up to £100m (€100m) to hijack the deal[3][6]. Sources highlight Gordon's local ties—"He grew up there, and his family are Liverpool fans"—and his versatility as a left-winger, centre-forward, or right-sided option, making him an ideal Salah successor as Mohamed Salah eyes a Saudi move[3][4][6].

At Anfield, Gordon could displace underperforming Cody Gakpo on the left, especially if Salah departs and frustrations with Gakpo persist. His "frightening" pace, lauded by Jamie Carragher, aligns perfectly with Slot's high-intensity system, adding explosive transitions and directness[2]. Newcastle, who signed him for £45m in 2023, demand £85-95m, echoing their resistance in past deals like Alexander Isak's[3].

Gordon's 32 goals and 28 assists in 141 Newcastle games underscore his Premier League pedigree. A move would fulfill his dream while igniting a bidding war, but Liverpool's strong interest and tactical fit make them favorites[1][4][5]. This pace demon could elevate Slot's Reds to new heights.

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