Newcastle adds smart 60% clause in Anthony Gordon’s Barcelona deal
A special clause has been added to Anthony Gordon’s Barcelona contract that could earn Newcastle millions if the England player appears in 60% of their games during a season. Gordon will officially become a Barcelona player on Friday after they agreed to pay £70 million to Newcastle.
The 25-year-old, who signed a five-year deal with Barca, was also a target for Bayern Munich after an impressive season where he was Newcastle’s top scorer with 18 goals. But Barcelona sealed the deal this week, with Newcastle’s sporting director Ross Wilson playing a big part in the talks.
Wilson even managed to include a smart clause that could bring Newcastle up to €1 million each season if Gordon plays in 60% of the matches, according to the Chronicle. With Gordon’s reported £300,000-a-week contract, Newcastle could earn around €5 million from this agreement. The report also says Newcastle could get another €5 million if Gordon wins trophies with Barcelona, who recently defended their La Liga title.
Some people were quite surprised by Barcelona paying £70 million for Gordon, including former Newcastle striker Alan Shearer. “I didn’t think Barca had that kind of money,” Shearer told Betfair. “Maybe they’re playing smart and now have the funds to spend. I’m not sure what they’ll do with Rashford — if they keep both Rashford and Gordon, it’s interesting.”
Shearer thought Bayern Munich was the more likely destination because of all the rumors, but Barcelona came in late and surprised everyone. He noted that the payment is spread over the contract, not all at once.
He also said he’s okay with Gordon leaving St James’ Park this summer. “When a player wants to move and isn’t fully committed anymore, it’s best for the club to let them go,” Shearer said. “No one is bigger than the club. It’s a good deal for Newcastle and a great chance for Anthony Gordon. We thank him for what he’s done.”
Shearer added, “He’s definitely divided opinions at Newcastle, but I wish him all the best. I have no problems with it.”