Newcastle Circle Betis Star as Gordon Heads to Barcelona

Newcastle appear to have stolen a march on Chelsea in the race to sign Real Betis winger Abde Ezzalzouli, with the player reportedly keen on a move to St. James' Park rather than Stamford Bridge.

The catalyst for all this activity is Anthony Gordon's imminent departure. The England winger is leaving Newcastle to join Barcelona in a £69 million deal, leaving Eddie Howe's side needing a replacement on the left flank.

Enter Ezzalzouli. The Morocco international has caught Newcastle's attention, and it seems the feeling is mutual. The 26-year-old has enjoyed a productive campaign with Betis, notching 15 goals and 13 assists across 43 matches in all competitions.

Newcastle have been quietly monitoring the former Barcelona prospect for several months, but Gordon's exit has prompted them to shift into higher gear. Ezzalzouli's camp are understood to be receptive to the prospect of moving to the North East, drawn by the club's long-term ambitions and the chance to test himself in the Premier League.

The Betis star carries a €60 million release clause (£52 million), making him an attainable target for Newcastle—though they're hardly operating in isolation. Chelsea's BlueCo ownership has expressed interest, as have Manchester City's City Football Group. Everton and Aston Villa have also been linked with the winger.

Yet Newcastle appear best-positioned to land their man. A disappointing 2025/26 campaign under Howe hasn't dampened their determination to rebuild, and Ezzalzouli represents exactly the calibre of talent they'll need to replace Gordon's absence. Whether the Magpies can get the deal over the line remains to be seen, but they've certainly given themselves a fighting chance.