In a significant transfer move, SK Rapid Vienna has officially announced the signing of English winger Anthony Gordon from Premier League side Newcastle United. The highly anticipated deal sees Gordon join the Austrian club on a permanent three-year contract, marking the end of his brief tenure at St. James’ Park.
Gordon, 22, was initially signed by Newcastle from Everton in the January 2023 transfer window for a reported £45 million. However, after a promising start to life in the North East, his role in Eddie Howe’s squad became increasingly limited. Despite flashes of his potential, Gordon struggled to secure a consistent starting spot in Newcastle’s strong attacking unit, leading to speculation about his future.
Now, with a fresh start at Rapid Vienna, Gordon aims to rediscover the form that made him one of the brightest young talents in the Premier League. The move to the Austrian Bundesliga offers Gordon a platform to showcase his abilities, playing in a league where he can regain his confidence and further develop his skills. Rapid Vienna, known for its rich history and competitive spirit in Austria, will hope that Gordon can provide the attacking spark they need to challenge for top honors.
The contract is said to include an important clause: should Gordon perform well during his time in Austria, Rapid Vienna will have the option to sell him to a bigger European club, with a significant sell-on clause included to benefit both parties. This clause is a safety net for the club in case Gordon’s value rises, and it also reflects the potential Newcastle sees in the player despite his mixed stint in the Premier League.
Gordon’s departure marks a new chapter in his career. After years of being touted as one of England’s rising stars, this move provides him with a chance to find regular playing time and continue his development. For Rapid Vienna, the acquisition of Gordon brings much-needed talent to their squad as they aim to compete in the domestic league and European competitions.
Newcastle United, while parting with a promising young player, will hope the transfer provides them with a chance to reinvest in other areas of the team, while also benefiting from the sell-on potential should Gordon’s performances soar in Austria.
Overall, this deal represents a promising step forward for both the player and the clubs involved, with the added potential for significant rewards down the line.