Newcastle United have joined Arsenal in the race to sign the Bundesliga's newest sensation Omar Marmoush. The Eintracht Frankfurt forward has been in scintillating form this season, netting 14 goals and providing 10 assists, attracting attention from several clubs including Chelsea and Manchester City as well.
Despite reports from the Commerzbank Arena suggesting that Frankfurt have no intention of selling the player in January and Marmoush himself is not keen on a move, there could be a significant push for a summer deal. With a current price tag of around £50million, which could increase if his goalscoring exploits continue and interest intensifies, it seems unlikely that Newcastle would shell out such an amount to bolster their attack, especially when other areas need more immediate attention.
This is assuming Alexander Isak remains at the club, as both parties seem intent on. Arsenal have shown considerable interest in Isak in the past and are understood to be keen on signing a top striker this summer.
The Gunners are considered one of the frontrunners to land Marmoush should he depart Frankfurt in the summer, which would consequently end their pursuit of Isak. the money required to prise Isak away from St James' Park is likely to see Arsenal turn their attentions elsewhere - like Marmoush.
Newcastle legend Alan Shearer believes the Magpies would be "crazy" to sell Isak. "There have been reports this week that Newcastle would be willing to take £115million for Alexander Isaak in January. For me, it’s a no," Shearer told Betfair. "Unless they have a like-for-like, world class replacement ready to come in then it would be crazy to sell him in January and I don't think they will. It's not a viable option."
Marmoush, a familiar face in the Bundesliga with previous stints at Stuttgart and Wolfsburg, has elevated his game over the past two seasons. He ended the last campaign with an impressive tally of 17 goals and six assists.