Anthony Gordon has reportedly failed to report for training at Everton as he bids to secure a transfer to Newcastle United.
The playmaker drew interest from a number of clubs during the summer, including the Magpies, but he ultimately stayed at Goodison Park.
Since then, the England Under-21 international’s stock has arguably fallen as a result of failing to provide a single assist in 2022-23.
The last of his three goals came in October, and it contributed to Frank Lampard preferring other options before leaving earlier this week.
Nonetheless, it has been widely reported in recent days that Newcastle are putting in every effort to sign Gordon before the end of the month.
The North East club have allowed Chris Wood to leave for Nottingham Forest, leaving Eddie Howe one player short in the final third.
Rather than trying to replace Wood with another target man, Howe appears to be looking for a versatile attacker who can play in a variety of positions.
While the parties are negotiating, the Daily Mail reports that Everton are demanding £55m for the 21-year-old.
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As things stand, Newcastle appear unlikely to meet those demands, but according to the same report, Gordon has taken matters into his own hands by refusing to return to the Merseyside club.
Gordon is said to have told Everton officials that he has no plans to attend training in order to force a transfer before the end of the month.
The latest development comes at a time when Everton are without a manager and are reportedly in talks with their top candidates, including former Leeds United head coach Marcelo Bielsa.
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