Anthony Gordon Compared to Michael Olise After Shock Barcelona Transfer: ‘Out of This World’

Owen Hargreaves has defended Anthony Gordon’s surprise move from Newcastle United to Barcelona, saying the winger can raise his level even further at Camp Nou. Gordon completed the transfer on Friday in a deal reported to be worth £69.3 million (€80 million), prompting debate over both the size of the fee and the sudden nature of the move. Hargreaves said the switch caught many people off guard, but he believes it could prove to be the right step for the 25-year-old.

Speaking on TNT Sports, Hargreaves argued that Gordon has already shown his quality at every club he has represented. He praised the England international for his performances at Everton and Newcastle, describing him as a player who has consistently delivered at a high level. In his view, Gordon is now at the stage of his career where a move to a bigger club can unlock another level of development.

Hargreaves pointed to Michael Olise as an example of how a talented attacking player can flourish after joining a European powerhouse. Olise left Crystal Palace for Bayern Munich in 2024 as a promising 22-year-old and has since developed into one of the most dangerous attackers in the game. Hargreaves suggested that Barcelona and head coach Hansi Flick may see similar potential in Gordon, believing the winger can make the same kind of leap.

Gordon’s versatility was also highlighted as a major reason Barcelona pursued him. Hargreaves said he can operate on the left, on the right, or even as a false nine, making him a valuable option in a squad already loaded with attacking talent. He believes playing alongside stars such as Lamine Yamal, Pedri and Frenkie de Jong could help Gordon improve quickly and have a major impact for the Spanish champions.

The reported transfer fee has drawn attention because it places Gordon among the most expensive British players in football history. But Hargreaves dismissed criticism over the cost, saying top players simply command top prices. He argued that Gordon is already a proven performer in both the Premier League and the Champions League, which justifies the investment Barcelona made.

Gordon arrives in Spain after his best season in front of goal. He scored 17 times in all competitions, including 10 goals in the Champions League, where he was among the competition’s leading scorers. Across his Newcastle career, he made 152 appearances, scoring 39 goals and providing 28 assists. He also has 17 senior England caps and has scored twice for his country.

For Hargreaves, the move is a bold one, but also an opportunity for Gordon to move from a strong Premier League performer to an even bigger stage in European football.