Arsenal’s pursuit of Alexander Isak will not be easy, as Newcastle United insist they are not under pressure to sell their star striker this summer.
However, behind the public stance, there remains an acceptance that a move could materialise if their valuation, believed to be well over £100m, is met.
NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 02: Mikel Merino of Arsenal challenges Alexander Isak of Newcastle during the Premier League match between Newcastle United FC and Arsenal FC at St James' Park on November 02, 2024 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images
Mikel Arteta, along with the rest of the universe, has identified the need for at least one new centre-forward in Arsenal’s summer rebuild, and Isak, with his blend of pace, technical quality, and finishing, is a leading candidate.
Sport in Spain recently reported that the Swedish international wants to take the next step in his career, with both Arsenal and Barcelona tracking him.
Yet, Newcastle chief executive Darren Eales has attempted to shut down speculation over the 25-year-old’s future, insisting the club has no need to cash in.
“We’re not under the gun to sell any of our key players – it would be crazy to consider it,” said Eales.
The Magpies’ hierarchy plan to offer Isak a new contract this summer in an effort to keep him at St James’ Park, with Eales stating Newcastle want to be seen as a destination for top players, not a stepping stone.
NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - MAY 07: Alexander Isak of Newcastle challenges Bukayo Saka of Arsenal during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Arsenal FC at St. James Park on May 07, 2023 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images
“We know he’s a world-class player and others covet him. But it’s almost as if we’re seen as a club in the next category down and it’s fair game to talk about our players leaving,” he said.
However, Newcastle’s financial situation and their Champions League hopes could yet influence the outcome. The club’s latest accounts revealed they remain constrained by Premier League Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR), limiting their spending power compared to top-six rivals.
Crucially, reports from England suggest Newcastle would listen to offers exceeding £100m, unless they qualify for the Champions League. Currently sixth in the league, Eddie Howe’s side is battling for a top-four or top-five finish, but defeats in three of their last four games has put a dent in those ambitions.
NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - MAY 07: Aaron Ramsdale of Arsenal looks on as a shot from Alexander Isak of Newcastle United hits the post whilst under pressure from Ben White during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Arsenal FC at St. James Park on May 07, 2023 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images
If Newcastle miss out on Champions League football, Sport claim the club will allow Isak to leave if their valuation is met. That leaves Arsenal watching closely, as Arteta reshapes his attack ahead of the summer.
The Gunners are expected to be active in the transfer market, with reports suggesting that Leandro Trossard or Gabriel Martinelli could be sold to fund an elite forward signing. While Isak is admired, the club is also weighing up RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Šeško, who has a £55m release clause, making him a more financially viable option.
LEIPZIG, GERMANY - JANUARY 12: Benjamin Sesko of RB Leipzig looks on during the Bundesliga match between RB Leipzig and SV Werder Bremen at Red Bull Arena on January 12, 2025 in Leipzig, Germany. (Photo by Maja Hitij/Getty Images)
Photo by Maja Hitij/Getty Images
The decision on Arsenal’s next sporting director, with Andrea Berta leading the race, will also play a role in determining the club’s summer targets.
But for now, Newcastle’s message is clear: they will fight to keep Isak, unless the right bid forces their hand.