Joe Gomez and Anthony Gordon: The Intriguing Transfer Saga

In today’s Daily Red podcast on Anfield Index, hosted by Dave Hendrick, delved into the potential swap deal between Liverpool and Newcastle involving Joe Gomez and Anthony Gordon. The discussion provided an in-depth look at the players, the fit within their respective teams, and the intricacies of modern football transfers. Let’s explore the key points and insights shared in the podcast.

The Swap Deal That Almost Happened

Hendrick refers to a report by Simon Jones, which suggests a potential deal where Joe Gomez would move to Newcastle for £45 million, and Anthony Gordon would join Liverpool for £75 million. This information, however, was kept under wraps, with “some suggestion in the Daily Mail that medicals were booked for the two players to take place in Leipzig whilst on England duty.” The fact that this story emerged only a month later indicates that local journalists were “absolutely in the dark” about the club’s plans.

This secrecy extends to other transfers, such as the recent deal for Wataru Endo, which also took several weeks to surface. Hendrick emphasised that journalists often only report what the club allows them to know, making much of the transfer speculation precisely that—speculation.

Anthony Gordon: Misfit Under Slot?

Hendrick raised doubts about Anthony Gordon’s suitability for Liverpool under the new management of Arne Slot. He noted that Gordon’s style of play, characterized by his tendency to “knock it past the fullback and sprint onto it,” made him a better fit under Klopp rather than Slot. The latter prefers wingers who can engage in one-on-one situations and act as playmakers, like “Solly March and Matoma at Brighton.” Gordon’s game, more reliant on pace and directness, contrasts with Slot’s tactical approach, which favors intricate play and creativity.

Furthermore, Hendrick compared Gordon to Liverpool’s current wide players, suggesting that “Diaz is a much better one versus one winger than Anthony Gordon.” While Gordon might excel in a high-press, transition-heavy system like Newcastle’s, where “Isak drops off, links play, plays almost like a false 9,” his role at Liverpool would be less pronounced, given the presence of Mohamed Salah and Darwin Núñez as primary attacking outlets.

Joe Gomez: Valuable Asset or Liability?

On the other hand, Joe Gomez’s situation at Liverpool seems more complex. Despite being a versatile and talented defender, Gomez’s “injury issues mean that his value is definitely diminished.” Hendrick believes that £45 million for Gomez would be a “significant overpay,” considering his injury record. Yet, Gomez’s potential departure raises concerns about Liverpool’s defensive depth. Hendrick argued for retaining Gomez, alongside other center-backs like Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté, to ensure stability and continuity.

The discussion also touched on Gomez’s openness to leaving, possibly seeking more consistent playing time. As Hendrick mentioned, “Joe apparently just asked the club to consider offers for him,” indicating a willingness to explore opportunities elsewhere, potentially closer to his home in the south.

The Bigger Picture: Liverpool’s Transfer Strategy

The podcast also shed light on Liverpool’s broader transfer strategy. Hendrick highlighted the club’s patient approach, often waiting for the right opportunity rather than rushing into the market. He mentioned that “people always seem to forget that when we go to buy a player from another club, that’s not the end of the chain of actions.” The process involves multiple layers, including the selling club’s need to secure replacements, which can delay deals.

Moreover, Hendrick reassured listeners that despite the lack of immediate action, Liverpool’s management, including key figures like Richard Hughes, is “very intelligent and know what they’re doing.” He suggested that the club might still secure crucial signings, potentially transforming the team’s prospects for the upcoming season.

In conclusion, the potential Gomez-Gordon swap deal encapsulates the complexities of modern football transfers, where tactical fit, player preferences, and strategic considerations all play a role. As the transfer window progresses, Liverpool fans can expect more surprises and, hopefully, the right additions to bolster their beloved team.