Arsenal are reportedly interested in buying Alexander Issak for £100 million this summer, having missed the chance to sign the Swedish striker for £37 million less than two years ago.
Newcastle United paid £63 million for Isak in 2022 and were rewarded for their investment. The 24-year-old has 29 goals and four assists in 60 appearances for the club.
Arsenal were reportedly interested in Isak when he moved to St James’ Park, but missed the chance to acquire the talented striker. This decision seems to be getting more expensive by the minute as Isak is developing into one of the most clinical players in the Premier League.
The opportunity for a second recruitment of Isak could arise at the end of the current season when Newcastle will try to raise funds due to profit and sustainability rules. One of the players they may want to sell to balance the books is Isak, for whom they are expected to fork out £100 million. This is according to a recent report, which indicated that Tottenham Hotspur are also ready to make their move.
🚨 @JacobsBen: “Arsenal, like many others, appreciate Isak, but most suitors know Newcastle don’t want or plan to lose Isak. Although it’s true Newcastle will be looking for outgoings to help balance the books, especially if they don’t qualify for Champions League football, Isak… pic.twitter.com/WgPmxj1VGw
— afcstuff (@afcstuff) April 16, 2024
Despite the Magpies having to sell this summer, Howe has made it clear that he believes his star striker will stay and that he does not want to lose a 14th player.
“Nobody connected with Newcastle wants to lose him,” the Newcastle boss told reporters ahead of Tuesday night’s game against Everton. “He is an exceptional talent. I thought he was excellent against West Ham. He didn’t score in open play but his two penalty kicks were outstanding and his overall game was very good. His link-up play, his athleticism, it looked like he was in a really good position.”
Isaac spoke about his future on Tyneside last month and claimed that “a lot of things can happen”. In an interview with Expressen, he said: “It doesn’t affect me that much. It’s been talked about many times, in many windows. I just see it as that kind of thing. Everybody knows that summer is coming and if something happens, something can happen, but I haven’t really thought about it at all.”
Football.london understands that Arsenal are on the hunt for a striker this summer. It is believed that Mikel Arteta wants someone who would offer great versatility in the front line, but that position could change very quickly before the end of the season.
