Alexander Isak of Newcastle United
Alexander Isak of Newcastle United
First it was Arsenal. Now it's presumed that as it will be Liverpool who will prise Alexander Isak from Newcastle United. That'll be the Liverpool Newcastle have just beaten 2-1 in the Carabao Cup final . . .
Let's be honest, it would be no surprise if Arne Slot wants to sign the Swedish hotshot in the summer. Who wouldn't? He's one of Europe's most in-form strikers, possesses pace, skilll and power and has proven beyond any doubt that he can cut it at the very top level.
It's not clubs coveting Newcastle players which so riles the United fanbase, it's the presumption that the big names won't be able to resist the lure of Anfield, the Emirates or even Barcelona's Nou Camp. They're all incredible places to play, of course, but its somewhat overlooks the fact that Isak and Co already have that right here at Newcastle.
So it was refreshing to hear from former England and Manchester United striker Teddy Sheringham on the subject of Isak's future. He knows a thing or two about scoring goals at the top level, and has starred under Sir Alex Ferguson at Old Trafford, as well as impressing under Brian Clough at Nottingham Forest and Terry Venables for England - alongside United legend Alan Shearer in Euro 96.
Despite the build up of transfer rumours on Isak's future, Sheringham insists he has everything he needs at St James' Park - and can be a key man in an exciting future for the club.
“Alexander Isak is at a fantastic football club that wants to improve, he should stay where he is," he told WDW Bingo. "They're ambitious, and the fans should be excited about where the club is heading.
"The place is on fire at every home game, and I don't see any reason why he would want to leave an amazing club that plays to his strengths and allows him to score goals. He is the best striker in the Premier League without a doubt, and my advice to him would be to enjoy his football, love the position he's in and carry on scoring goals.”
It's a stance both Isak and the club have maintained in recent weeks, with speculation increasing. The two parties are set for contract extension talks in the summer, although the promise of Champions League football next season will make those negotiations a whole lot easier.