Newcastle United are chasing the next Alexander Isak - but there is a catch.
Newcastle United are reportedly interested in AIK youngster Kevin Filling but face resistance due to Brexit regulations.
The 17-year-old burst onto the scene last year, with three goals after debuting in June. Sweden’s top flight follows an April to November format, with speculation surrounding Filling’s future during the off-season.
Ironically, he has drawn parallels to Alexander Isak, who also broke through the AIK ranks and was dubbed a prodigal talent. Filling has been described as a bustling striker with intelligent movement, explosive acceleration, and clinical finishing.
Brexit rules could thwart Newcastle United
The prospect of signing Isak 2.0 would be a silver lining to Toon fans still fuming at last summer’s saga. A three-month stalemate - which saw the striker down tools for the Magpies - ultimately ended when Liverpool stumped up a British record £125million.
However, the Daily Mail report that Brexit regulations could see Newcastle fall down the pecking order. Changes since the UK left the European Union prevent Premier League clubs from signing overseas youngsters until they turn 18.
Filling’s birthday is not until November - handing an advantage to continental clubs. Isak himself joined Borussia Dortmund as a 17-year-old , moving to Real Sociedad two years later before signing for Newcastle in 2022.
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‘More complicated than it seems’ - Alexander Isak
In December, Isak hinted at there being stories yet to be told regarding his explosive Toon exit. For now, he is preferring to keep his Newcastle career “in the past” and succeed on Merseyside.
“I can say this, things are always more complicated than they seem,” Isak said. “I have talked about this, but I have not gone into depth. And it is not something that I want to do, based on the fact that I have put it behind me. I am focusing forward, there is no benefit in going into it or opening it up - neither for me nor for anyone else. It must remain in the past.”
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