The 'winger whirlwind' arrives at Barca, Rashford's future left uncertain

Anthony Gordon is very close to signing for Barcelona at a cost of 80 million euros, while also making Marcus Rashford's situation uncertain at both Camp Nou and in the competition for a place in the England squad.

Anthony Gordon is becoming the name that keeps Marcus Rashford most restless this summer. Not only is he approaching a move to Barcelona, but the Newcastle star also has a direct opportunity to take his England teammate's spot.

Barcelona has reached an agreement to sign Gordon for up to 80 million euros, including a future sell-on clause. The Camp Nou side considers the 25-year-old the perfect piece for the pressing system that coach Hansi Flick is building.

Notably, this deal could effectively end Rashford's future in Catalonia. After a season on loan from Manchester United, the English forward had high hopes of being signed permanently by Barca. However, Gordon's arrival is narrowing that door.

Barcelona's transfer officials believe Gordon is a better fit than Rashford at the present moment. Not only does he possess pace and the ability to create chances on the flanks, but the former Everton star is also highly rated for his off-the-ball pressing, a factor that coach Hansi Flick considers "non-negotiable."

In Barca's eyes, Gordon is a high-energy player who moves constantly and can provide maximum support for the precious gem Lamine Yamal. He is also versatile enough to play on both wings or as a center-forward when needed.

Although he has only scored 6 goals in the Premier League this season, Gordon has made a strong impression in the Champions League with 10 goals, a record surpassing any current Barcelona player. This is why the Catalan club believes he can explode even more in a possession-based, dominant attacking environment.

For Rashford, things are becoming extremely complicated. Barca has not yet officially ruled out buying the 1998-born striker outright, but senior club leaders admit that the possibility of keeping him has become "much more difficult" after Gordon's arrival.

Manchester United is also in a difficult position. Rashford still earns over £300,000 a week, while Old Trafford does not want to lower their asking price. If Barca abandons the permanent deal, the Red Devils will have a headache finding a new destination for the star once seen as the symbol of the Carrington academy.

Ironic as it may be, the competition does not stop at the club level. In the upcoming England camp under coach Thomas Tuchel, Gordon and Rashford are likely to compete directly for the left-wing position.

At 25, Gordon is proving he is no longer a "supporting actor" for the Three Lions. His speed, pressing intensity, and constant bursts make a strong impression on Tuchel, who always prioritizes high-energy, tactically disciplined players.

If he continues to shine at Barcelona, Gordon could completely turn Rashford into a backup option for both club and country. A transfer deal that risks "taking the bread out of a teammate's mouth" in the truest sense.