Newcastle United’s six-word response to Anthony Gordon links amid transfer ‘blow’

Eddie Howe has refused to comment on the speculation linking Newcastle United to a move for Anthony Gordon.

The Magpies have been linked with a fresh move for the Everton star following Chris Wood’s exit to Nottingham Forest.

United had a bid rejected for Gordon last summer but Howe gave nothing away when asked about the 21-year-old.

“No, no comment on any players,” Howe said.

Howe admitted it was a “blow” to lose Wood but the club is working hard behind the scenes to bring in an attacker.

The 45-year-old: “It’s no secret that losing Chris Wood was a blow to us and we’re looking, not necessarily for a like-for-like transfer, but someone who can bolster us in the attacking areas.”

He added: “I think the club are trying, and that’s where we are at. There’s no positive news to give you but certainly, there is a lot of work going on.”

Howe spoke to the media ahead of the first leg of Newcastle’s Carabao Cup semi-final clash against Southampton.

“From my side, I try to shift my focus from one thing to another, that’s one of my strengths,” Howe said. “My first priority is always the games and players we have here in terms of training, the preparation.

“Once that is done, then we turn to the transfer market and make sure we identify the players that we feel will come into the group and make us stronger.”