- Newcastle United scout Abde Ezzalzouli
- Moroccan international gaining interest from other Premier League clubs
- Anthony Gordon exit could open door
Newcastle United reportedly had senior representatives in attendance at Real Betis’s 2-1 home victory over Elche yesterday. Abde Ezzalzouli was the focus of the visit, with the Magpies preparing for a life without Anthony Gordon amid growing reports of Bayern Munich.
Ezzalzouli is a relatively new name to Newcastle’s list of left-winger replacements. The Moroccan has caught the eye both domestically and in Europe this season.
The scouting mission, reported by Manu Colchon, would suggest the 24-year-old could be high on the agenda this summer. It appears no coincidence that the visit has occurred almost in tandem with news that Gordon has agreed on personal terms with Bayern.
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Newcastle Interested in Ezzalzouli
Ezzalzouli fits the bill of a Newcastle United target, especially with the recruitment shift this summer. His age profile aligns with the desire to reduce the squad’s average age whilst also providing the quality to come into the fold and make an immediate impact.
Ezzalzouli has managed a rather impressive tally of 14 goals and 10 assists in 41 appearances this season and was also perhaps the most exhilarating piece of Morocco’s AFCON-winning squad.
The left winger has spent the last three seasons at Betis, where he has gained valuable European experience. That will likely be another factor in the Magpies’ interest, given the club’s future ambition.
Ezzalzouli actually shares a few similarities with Gordon’s playstyle.
The Moroccan is very direct and explosive, but is perhaps more of a live wire than the England international and keeps up his output across the 90 minutes. This is best shown by the winger having over 4.5 progressive runs and one of the highest dribble success rates per 90 in La Liga this season.
Could Newcastle get a deal done?
Unfortunately for the Magpies, they are not the only club reportedly interested in the Moroccan. Liverpool were linked with a move just a few months ago, and Aston Villa have emerged in recent weeks as a possible destination for the Betis man.
Gordon’s departure would open up a starting spot on that left-hand side, which could be endearing to Ezzalzouli compared to other clubs.
But again, the Magpies’ lack of European football could become a big problem, with the 24-year-old having played in Europe each of his last three years.
Furthermore, a club like Liverpool, with Mo Salah leaving too, who will likely offer Champions League football, could be the most likely destination, given it is the only European competition Ezzalzouli has yet to feature in.
