· December 22 2024, 09:30
Did you know that because Alexander Isak is so good he must, by divine right, be playing for Arsenal? That seems to be the suggestion from London-based media and pundits.
The Newcastle United striker bagged his first hat-trick for the Magpies in the 4-0 win over Ipswich Town on Saturday and naturally, the conversation in the post-match presser with Eddie Howe was about how hard it's going to be to keep hold of Isak going forward.
There have been rumours of him being unsettled and demanding a new contract all in front of the backdrop of relentless speculation that Arsenal are going to swoop in and take him away.
Indeed, Paul Merson spent the bulk of his time writing about Isak at Arsenal in his score prediction ahead of the Ipswich game.
Advertisement
0 Alexander Isak 2
Getty Images
London-based media are adamant Arsenal have a right to sign Alexander Isak
Eddie Howe has had 'very positive' talks with Alexander Isak
Thankfully, Eddie Howe was able to set the record straight after Ipswich yesterday insisting he's not heard from Arsenal and every time he's talked to Isak, they are on the same page about his future (h/t NUFCBlog).
“Makes me laugh! Yeah absolutely [He plans to keep Isak at Newcastle]. There’s no part of me or anyone at Newcastle that wants to let Alex go. He’s very much part of our long-term plans. Personally, I don’t see that being an issue.
“Every conversation I’ve had concerning his future with him has been very positive. I’d love, for him, with the other players to be the man that contributes to us winning a trophy, that’s the aim.”
Advertisement
Will Eddie Howe's words make any difference to the narrative?
Obviously, as we know from the number of times Bruno has spoken of his desire to remain at the club, these words won't make a blind bit of difference to the journalists out there who will continue to try and make the Arsenal move happen.
Isak is in stunning form for Newcastle right now having scored six goals in his last five games in all competitions and he's already closing in on Callum Wilson in the all-time scorers list for the club.
There is no amount of money that could make it worthwhile selling Isak right now as there is simply no replacing him.