Newcastle United Confirm the Signing of Antonio Cordero: Shirt Number Revealed as Anthony Gordon Move Edges Closer to Completion

Newcastle United Confirm the Signing of Antonio Cordero: Shirt Number Revealed as Anthony Gordon Move Edges Closer to Completion

A Monumental Summer for the Magpies: Antonio Cordero Arrives at St. James’ Park

In a sensational piece of business that has sent shockwaves through English football, Newcastle United have officially announced the signing of Spanish teenage sensation Antonio Cordero. The deal, confirmed via the club’s official website and across its social media platforms, comes amidst growing speculation around Anthony Gordon’s imminent departure following a major offer accepted by the club. As fans digest the whirlwind developments, Newcastle’s bold transfer strategy under Eddie Howe and sporting director Dan Ashworth is coming into sharp focus.

Antonio Cordero: Who is Newcastle’s Newest Spanish Star?

A Rising Gem from La Liga

Antonio Cordero, just 18 years old, has already been on the radar of Europe’s biggest clubs. A product of Sevilla’s prolific youth system, the winger emerged as one of the standout performers in the UEFA Youth League and earned first-team minutes in La Liga last season. Known for his electric pace, close control, and fearlessness on the ball, Cordero has drawn comparisons to a young Ansu Fati and has been labelled by some as Spain’s most promising winger since Nico Williams.

Breakout Campaign in Spain

Last season, Cordero made 17 senior appearances for Sevilla, scoring 4 goals and assisting twice—impressive numbers for a player who only turned 18 in March. His maturity and willingness to take on defenders caught the eye of several scouts, with clubs like Borussia Dortmund, AC Milan, and Arsenal all registering interest before Newcastle swooped in decisively.

The Deal: Transfer Details, Contract Length, and Shirt Number

A €32 Million Investment in Youth

According to reports from Spanish outlet Marca and confirmed by English media, Newcastle have agreed to pay €32 million (£27.5 million) plus add-ons to secure the services of Cordero. The Magpies beat out several competitors thanks to the persuasive vision laid out by Eddie Howe, who reportedly played a key role in convincing the youngster and his family.

Cordero has signed a five-year contract running through the summer of 2030, with an option for a sixth year. His wage is understood to be in the region of £45,000 per week—substantial for an 18-year-old but indicative of the high expectations the club has for him.

New Shirt Number Unveiled: The 11 Legacy Continues

In a move that has stirred further excitement, Newcastle confirmed that Cordero will wear the number 11 shirt—previously worn by Anthony Gordon. This symbolic transfer signals both a passing of the torch and the club’s confidence that Cordero can fill the void left by the English international.

Anthony Gordon’s Exit: A Strategic Sacrifice or Forced Move?

Bid Accepted from Liverpool Worth Up to £65 Million

Newcastle’s decision to accept a £65 million offer from Liverpool for Anthony Gordon—a player who just completed a breakthrough campaign with 13 Premier League goals and 8 assists—has shocked many fans. However, insiders suggest the club was left with little choice due to Financial Fair Play (FFP) constraints and Gordon’s own desire to return to Merseyside.

Gordon’s Growth and Impact at Newcastle

Since arriving from Everton in January 2023, Gordon has transformed into one of the Premier League’s most dynamic wingers. His blistering pace, improved finishing, and relentless work rate made him a fan favourite at St. James’ Park. However, sources close to the player indicate he has long dreamt of playing for Liverpool, the club he supported as a child.

Howe’s Blessing and Strategic Rebuild

Though Eddie Howe is known to rate Gordon highly, he reportedly gave his blessing for the move—recognising that the sale could free up funds for multiple key acquisitions. One of those, evidently, is Cordero. Another is expected to be a central midfielder, with Newcastle linked to Monaco’s Youssouf Fofana and Fiorentina’s Sofyan Amrabat.

Cordero’s First Words: “I’m Here to Create My Own Story”

Official Interview Highlights

In his first club interview, Antonio Cordero expressed delight and ambition in equal measure:

“Newcastle is a big club with passionate fans. I’ve seen what this team is building, and I want to be part of it. I know Anthony Gordon was a great player here, and I respect everything he did. But I’m here to create my own story in the number 11 shirt.”

The young Spaniard also spoke highly of Eddie Howe, whom he described as “a manager who gives young players confidence and responsibility.”

How Cordero Fits into Eddie Howe’s Tactical Blueprint

Versatility and Width

Cordero is naturally a left-winger but has shown he can operate on the right or as a second striker. His arrival gives Eddie Howe options to tweak the system and increase Newcastle’s attacking unpredictability. With Alexander Isak and Harvey Barnes forming the front line, Cordero could be used as an impact sub initially—before claiming a starting role by mid-season.

Transition from Gordon

Where Gordon relied on raw speed and directness, Cordero brings a more technical and dribbling-heavy style. This will likely require some tactical adjustments, but the coaching staff believe his ceiling is “world-class.”

Fan Reaction: Excitement, Nostalgia, and Mixed Emotions

A New Hero in the Making?

Fans gathered outside St. James’ Park on the day of the announcement, some already donning “Cordero 11” shirts from the club megastore. Social media buzzed with compilations of his best moments in Spain and optimistic projections of his potential in the Premier League.

Parting Love for Gordon

While the buzz around Cordero is undeniable, many supporters expressed sadness over Anthony Gordon’s departure. Newcastle Twitter accounts paid tribute with messages like:

“Thanks for the memories, Anthony. You gave us everything in black and white.”

“Cordero looks special—but Gordon was OURS.”

The Bigger Picture: Newcastle’s Summer of Smart Spending and Bold Moves

FFP and Squad Evolution

This transfer window is arguably the most important yet for the post-takeover era. With the pressure of Financial Fair Play limiting Newcastle’s spending, smart selling and targeted investment have become essential. Letting go of a top asset like Gordon enables a chain reaction of reinforcements without breaching financial thresholds.

Youth Focus and Long-Term Strategy

Signing Cordero fits perfectly into Newcastle’s long-term vision: identify elite young talent before it explodes in value, integrate it into a competitive team, and develop a sustainable, trophy-challenging squad. Other names reportedly on the shortlist include Southampton’s Romeo Lavia, Club Brugge’s Antonio Nusa, and PSG’s Xavi Simons.

What’s Next for Newcastle?

Midfield Reinforcements Expected

With Cordero’s signing completed and Gordon’s exit nearly official, the focus now shifts to midfield. Bruno Guimarães is attracting interest from PSG and Real Madrid, and Newcastle may act quickly to secure a replacement or partner. There is also growing noise around a potential return for James Maddison if Spurs allow talks to open.

Preseason Tour in USA: First Glimpse of Cordero

Cordero will likely make his unofficial debut in the United States during Newcastle’s upcoming preseason tour. The Magpies will face Inter Miami, Club América, and New York Red Bulls in a high-profile series designed to grow the club’s global brand.

Conclusion: A Brave New Era Begins

The signing of Antonio Cordero, paired with the emotional exit of Anthony Gordon, marks a definitive turning point for Newcastle United. As the club continues its march toward becoming a European mainstay, bold moves like this one will define its trajectory.

Cordero’s success is by no means guaranteed—but the tools, talent, and temperament are all there. The shirt number 11, once owned by Gordon, now finds a new life on the back of a teenage Spaniard eager to etch his name into Tyneside folklore.

The Magpies’ message is clear: the future is here, and his name is Antonio Cordero.

Stay tuned for updates on Gordon’s medical with Liverpool, upcoming Newcastle transfers, and exclusive preseason coverage from the USA.