Newcastle United are aware of a tempting £51 million release clause for Real Betis winger Abde Ezzalzouli as they search for a replacement for Anthony Gordon, who left the club this week. Sporting director Ross Wilson is leading the recruitment drive, and while the club will not panic, they aim to secure an early deal ahead of the Premier League season.
The 24-year-old Morocco international, a former Barcelona player, has impressed at Real Betis with 15 goals and 13 assists in 45 matches across all competitions. Despite being slightly older than Newcastle's usual target profile under PIF ownership, exceptions may be made. Ezzalzouli has attracted interest from Juventus, Benfica, Paris St-Germain, Aston Villa, and Barcelona, but Betis's Champions League qualification reduces pressure to sell.
Gordon's departure was a far cry from Alexander Isak's exit last summer, as he said farewell to teammates at the team hotel on Sunday morning before being an unused substitute in the 2-0 loss to Fulham. He left on good terms, with sources indicating that a sale was expected for months to facilitate purchases. The £69.3 million fee was agreed swiftly, with wheels already in motion before the World Cup.
Newcastle are also improving their loan department, planning to appoint a physiotherapist to monitor players out on loan. This follows difficulties with winger Trevan Sanusi's spell at Lorient, where he struggled with injury and adaptation. The club's advert seeks a 'Talent Management (Loans) Physiotherapist' to ensure best-practice care and communication with loan clubs.
