Alexander Isak - Arsenal
Image credit: Getty Images
Arsenal’s long-standing interest in Alexander Isak may have received a subtle boost thanks to the striker’s past connection with Gunners captain Martin Ødegaard. The Newcastle United forward, who scored 23 Premier League goals in the 2024/25 season, has once again emerged as a key target for Mikel Arteta’s side as they search for a prolific number nine this summer.
The Gunners have tracked Isak for several years, even before his £63 million switch from Real Sociedad to Newcastle in 2022. During the 2019/20 season, Isak and Ødegaard played together at Sociedad, forging a strong relationship both on and off the pitch. At the time, Isak even described Ødegaard as his “best friend” in the squad.
“We have a very good contact and thrive well together. It is natural that he would be my best friend on the team,” Isak said during their time together in Spain.
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That bond could now prove pivotal as Arsenal look to finally land their long-time target. While there is no guarantee of a deal, the existing friendship between Ødegaard and Isak could help sway the Swedish international’s decision, especially amid growing competition for his signature. Liverpool are reportedly monitoring the striker, while Newcastle remain determined to keep their star man as they prepare for a return to Champions League football.
Alexander Isak and Martin Odegaard
Alexander Isak and Martin Odegaard spent a season together at Real Sociedad (Image credit: Getty Images)
When asked about his future earlier this year, Isak remained non-committal. “I think this club can achieve great things. We should look at one season at a time and this season we can achieve winning a trophy, which would be amazing for everyone,” he said in March.
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“My future is nothing I really think about. I’ve said many times during a season I just focus on the job, now is probably the worst time to think about anything else.”
Despite the uncertainty, Arsenal will be hoping that Ødegaard’s presence in North London could help tip the scales in their favour should Isak consider a move away from St. James’ Park.
Nonetheless, alternative options such as Benjamin Sesko and Viktor Gyökeres are currently viewed as more attainable targets. With the Gunners falling just short of the Premier League title for three consecutive seasons, the signing of a clinical striker is seen as essential to finally turning them from contenders into champions.
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