Following a summer of speculation linking him with Liverpool, Anthony Gordon has given Arne Slot more to ponder after his impressive performance for England. The Newcastle winger was instrumental in England's 2-0 UEFA Nations League triumph over the Republic of Ireland on Saturday.
And it was Liverpool's Trent Alexander-Arnold who provided the incisive pass that found Gordon in the build-up to Declan Rice's opening goal. The searching ball through to Gordon opened a hole in the Irish defences, which ended with Arsenal anchor Rice finishing from short range.
This interaction has sparked further speculation among Liverpool fans about the potential of Gordon moving back to Merseyside. Rumours first surfaced during Euro 2024 that the Reds were considering a move for the forward, but the former Everton star ultimately stayed at St. James' Park.
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The idea of seeing Alexander-Arnold regularly teaming up with his international colleague is an exciting prospect. However, The Mirror reported on one other significant issue Slot must also address.
That being the uncertain future of Alexander-Arnold, who is already in the final year of his contract. The defender is one of several key players at Anfield whose current deal is set to expire next summer, including Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk.
Liverpool have kicked off the Slot era with a bang, securing impressive victories against Manchester United, Brentford and Ipswich Town in the opening weeks of the Premier League. However, some players may be waiting to see more from the Dutch manager before deciding their futures at the club.
Among them is Alexander-Arnold, who would not be short of suitors if he chose to depart. Over the summer, rumours surfaced linking Real Madrid with the potential free agent, posing perhaps the greatest threat to Liverpool's hopes of retaining their star man.
Slot wrapped up his inaugural summer at the Anfield helm with just one outfield signing: the cost-effective acquisition of Federico Chiesa from Juventus. Rather than making hasty decisions following Jurgen Klopp's exit, the ex-Feyenoord boss showed restraint and trust in the existing squad.
Trent Alexander-Arnold with a slide rule (with reverse side) pass to put Anthony Gordon through on goal. Outrageous execution by the Liverpool player. pic.twitter.com/2rrAAUJOBK
— Sportsweek (@Sportsweek) September 7, 2024
In theory, this prudence could help fund a move for Gordon in 2025 should Liverpool reignite their interest in the local lad. Gordon, 23, moved to Newcastle from Everton in January 2023 in a £45million deal, but recent speculation suggests his value has nearly doubled since then.
However, the path to forging a potentially successful club partnership between international colleagues is relatively simple. The only minor issue is ensuring Alexander-Arnold remains at the club in the long term before Liverpool can introduce Gordon to the equation.
