News

Newcastle will sell Alexander Isak to Arsenal in dream Mikel Arteta transfer if one thing happens

Add as preferred source on Google

Arsenal may have received a significant boost in their pursuit of Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak.

Isak is understood to be Mikel Arteta’s dream target, with the Gunners keen on strengthening their forward-line in the summer and upgrading on Kai Havertz.

The Swede is enjoying a productive campaign for the Magpies, netting 17 goals and providing 5 assists in 23 Premier League appearances.

While the likes of Benjamin Sesko and Matheus Cunha could present cheaper alternatives, a fresh twist in the Isak saga means Arsenal have renewed hope in securing one of the most potent forwards in European football.

Alexander Isak in action for Newcastle United against Arsenal
Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images

Newcastle willing to sell Alexander Isak to Arsenal if they fail to qualify for the Champions League

Kai Havertz has been berated by Arsenal fans at times this season for his wastefulness in front of goal.

While the German is a beloved figure at the Emirates, there is an acceptance that another top quality striker is needed to push the Gunners towards the elusive pieces of silverware they crave.

Isak is the primary target this summer, and a report from Spanish publication Sport suggests that Newcastle will be willing to sanction his departure if they fail to qualify for the Champions League.

It’s reported that the Tynesiders accept that they’ll lose the player if they aren’t in Europe’s top-tier competition next season, and that they won’t block the deal, as long as they receive a fair offer for him.

The north-east outfit want in excess of €100 million (£83 million) for their talisman, with Barcelona, Chelsea and Liverpool also said to be in the mix.

The Premier League is expected to have five Champions League spots, and Newcastle currently sit just two points behind Bournemouth in fifth.

Newcastle United v Arsenal - Carabao Cup Semi Final Second Leg
Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images

Arsenal should be the favourites to seal Alexander Isak transfer

While Sport indicate that there is plenty of competition for Isak, Arsenal should be the clear favourites to secure his signature.

The Gunners have held an interest in the 25-year-old for some time now, and thus they have likely done some groundwork regarding personal terms with the player.

Jamie Carragher and Paul Scholes don’t believe Arsenal will sign Isak over Liverpool, although N5 is the most logical destination for the player.

Isak’s Premier League Statistics 2024/25
Appearances23
Goals17
Assists5
Shots per 903.05
Expected Goals per 900.68
Key Passes per 901.67
Expected Assists per 900.15
All Statistics via FBRef – correct as of 18/02/2025

Barcelona’s financial struggles means Catalonia isn’t likely for Isak, while the Merseysiders already have a plethora of forwards at their disposal and surely won’t splash more than £100 million on another.

Chelsea could present Arsenal with the most serious competition, although the Blues may not qualify for the Champions League themselves, and they have an improving Nicolas Jackson on their books.