Howe advises Gordon to stay focused at Newcastle despite Arsenal transfer rumours

Newcastle boss Eddie Howe has urged forward Anthony Gordon to keep his attention on immediate priorities despite rumours of a possible switch to Premier League frontrunners Arsenal following the current campaign.

Press coverage from Friday indicated that the 25 year old, who netted four times during last weeks Champions League playoff opener win against Qarabag, could become a pursuit target for the Gunners in their title bid.

Howe, still managing the fallout from Alexander Isaks departure from Newcastle to Liverpool over the summer, aims to sidestep any similar drawn out saga but recognises that managerial influence has its limits.

"I am unsure what action I can take on that front. I have not come across the report, so it is fresh information to me," Howe shared with journalists prior to the upcoming league fixture versus Gordons old team Everton on Saturday. 

"However, we are right in the heart of the season, facing some of the most crucial matches in his professional life, and there could be international opportunities for him come summertime too?

"He cannot afford to glance sideways; full concentration must remain directly forward on the upcoming match and striving for peak performance."

Gordon quashed exit speculation from Newcastle, who sit 11th in the Premier League table this month, shortly after inking a fresh long term deal back in October 2024.

He aims to build on his recent momentum to earn a spot in the England lineup for the forthcoming World Cup tournament.

The ex Bournemouth manager Howe, questioned on whether he worries Gordon might get sidetracked by Arsenal chatter, responded: "That would only happen if he takes notice of it, I imagine. These days, gossip and conjecture are constant."

"I tend to miss about 90 percent of such stories, I reckon the players encounter more than me, yet it is part and parcel of elite level play and performing at this standard, where speculation is inevitable."

The 48 year old, commenting ahead of a Champions League last 16 draw that matched Newcastle with Barcelona, continued: "You simply need to block it from your mind and centre on the game, given our packed calendar leaves no room for diversions. Total dedication to every fixture is essential."