‘I can really excel’ - Everton star Anthony Gordon makes exciting claim after completing Newcastle United move

Newcastle United have officially confirmed the signing of winger Anthony Gordon - and the former Everton man has already stated his intention to ‘really excel’ at St James Park.

The Magpies were heavily linked with a move for the England Under-21 international during the summer transfer window and were believed to have been unsuccessful with two offers for the Toffees star.

However, their interest remained very much alive and the move moved a step closer when the Goodison Park club accepted a deal reportedly worth around £45m on Friday. Gordon travelled up to the North East to undergo a medical and complete the formalities of United’s first deal of the January transfer window.

After putting pen-to-paper on a long-term deal, Gordon stated his belief he is making ‘a really big step’ in joining Eddie Howe’s squad.

He told NUFC TV: “Since I heard of the interest, I was always convinced Newcastle were for me,” Gordon told NUFC TV.

“I think the fan base and the city really suits me as a person, the way the team are playing under the gaffer at the minute really suits me, and the club just look like they’re heading in the right direction. I feel like it’s a really big step. People haven’t seen what I’m capable of yet. I think under the gaffer, and the way the club’s going, I can really excel here.”

The move marks the end of a long-standing pursuit of the winger and Magpies manager Howe is relishing the opportunity to work with his latest addition.

Head coach Eddie Howe added: “I’m delighted to sign Anthony - he’s a top, top talent.

“I’m really excited to work with him, to develop him, and I’m looking forward to seeing what he can do in a Newcastle shirt.”

Gordon is ineligible for Tuesday night’s Carabao Cup semi-final second leg against Southampton but could make his Magpies debut when his new side entertain West Ham United on Saturday evening.

West Ham United defender Harrison Ashby is expected to become United’s second new addition after the two clubs agreed a deal worth around £3m on Sunday morning.