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Alan Shearer feels Newcastle United’s handling of Anthony Gordon’s impending transfer has been shaped by the lessons they learned from last summer’s transfer window challenges.

Spanish giants Barcelona are reportedly closing in on signing England international Gordon for around £69 million, with the move expected to be finalised within a week of the Premier League season ending.

Gordon’s impressive performances for Newcastle United in the Champions League last season are believed to have convinced Barcelona to pay a hefty fee to bring the former Everton forward into Hansi Flick’s attacking setup.

Former Newcastle and England striker Alan Shearer described the deal as ‘a good one for all sides’, noting that the Magpies have managed the timing of Gordon’s departure wisely.

“I think Newcastle have been scarred by the Isak situation and can never be put in that situation again,” Shearer told Betfair.

“I suppose Newcastle’s thinking is, ‘well, if that’s the case, we get what we can for him, and then we start planning.’”

“Is it enough of a fee? I think it’s a good deal for both. It works for both parties – for Anthony and for Newcastle. Clearly, he wants to move on. The manager hasn’t played him in the last five or six weeks.”

Shearer referenced the 2025 summer transfer saga involving Alexander Isak, who forced a move to Liverpool after making his desire to leave clear.

Though Newcastle made a significant profit from the Swedish striker’s sale, the late timing of the move disrupted Eddie Howe’s pre-season plans and affected the team’s start to the campaign.

“You’d never want to be bitten twice like last summer,” Shearer added. “Could they have got more for him? I’m not sure. But the timing feels right now so they can prepare ahead. If it suits Newcastle, then it’s the correct deal at the right time. If it’s £70 million or so, they’ve made a healthy profit.”

The former Newcastle captain acknowledged Gordon’s ability but believes the club will come out of the transfer with financial gain and minimal impact on their ambitions to return to European football in the following season.

“I’m not upset at all that he’s leaving,” said Shearer. “I know he’s scored goals this season, mainly in the Champions League. He got six in the league, three of which were penalties.”

“No player is bigger than the club. It’s a good deal for Newcastle first and foremost, and also a very good move for Anthony Gordon. Best of luck to him.”

“I am, however, surprised that Barcelona are spending £70 million plus add-ons for him because I didn’t think they had that kind of money.”

“Maybe they’re being smart, and perhaps they’ve freed up funds to spend. What happens now with Marcus Rashford will be interesting — whether they plan to have both Rashford and Gordon, I’m not sure.”

Gordon played in all 12 of Newcastle’s Champions League fixtures in the 2025–26 season, including both legs of their round of 16 elimination against Barcelona.

The England winger, who has been named in Thomas Tuchel’s World Cup squad, netted an impressive 10 goals in Europe’s top-tier competition.