Mourinho Fan Heading to Barcelona: "I Idolized Him!"

Barcelona is on the verge of securing their first major summer signing, adding a significant attacking talent to their squad.

According to reports from both English and Spanish media, Anthony Gordon is set to swap Newcastle for the Spanish champions in a transfer deal that could reach €80 million.

The England international enjoyed a standout season despite the Magpies' disappointing campaign, tallying 17 goals and five assists in 46 appearances. He is expected to arrive in Catalonia as early as Thursday for his medical examination, having traveled by private jet.

Should the 25-year-old's move to Barcelona materialize, he could soon reunite with the manager he once hailed as his "favorite coach" – albeit with that coach now at their biggest rival.

We're talking about José Mourinho, who, by all indications, is set to leave Benfica for Real Madrid, promising at least two high-stakes encounters with Barcelona.

Just over six months ago, after contributing a goal and an assist to Newcastle's 3-0 victory over Benfica in the Champions League group stage, Gordon shared details of a conversation with the Portuguese coach, revealing his admiration for him since childhood.

"Mourinho told me 'you're incredible,' which for me is a huge compliment because when I was a kid, he was my favorite coach in the whole world," Gordon began, before explaining that he sees elements of Mourinho's approach to football reflected in his own game.

"He manages to create a group environment that makes you feel like 'it's us against the world.' And I recognize that in my own play. So, his words really mean a lot to me. Even if I didn't idolize him, a compliment from a coach of that caliber would be incredible," he concluded.

It remains to be seen how both will navigate their relationship if they indeed find themselves on opposing sides, each viewing the other as the "world" they are fighting against.