Mikel Arteta has actually cost Arsenal Alexander Isak signing after what he did in May, it has seriously backfired

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Arsenal transfer target Alexander Isak has informed Newcastle United that he wants to explore a move away from St. James’ Park this summer.

Isak has long been touted as Mikel Arteta’s dream signing, but the excessive asking price placed on the player has deterred the Gunners from making a move.

The Swede netted 23 goals and registered six assists in the Premier League last season, and would undoubtedly elevate the level of the North Londoners’ attack.

However, Arsenal have instead opted to sign Viktor Gyokeres, who is closing in on a £63 million switch to the Emirates from Sporting CP.

• READ MORE: Confirmed Arsenal summer 2025 transfer ins and outs, signings and done deals

Mikel Arteta’s request for an early striker signing has cost him Alexander Isak

Arteta made it clear to the Arsenal hierarchy at the end of last season that he wanted to have a striker in as early as possible this summer, preferably before pre-season commenced.

After the saga involving Benjamin Sesko went into early July, Arsenal opted to accelerate talks with Sporting over Gyokeres, in order to ensure Arteta’s request was met.

Now, however, with the latest developments on the Isak front, the Spaniard may be regretting his decision to ask Andrea Berta to rush on a move for a number nine.

If Arsenal had any inclination that Isak may have been willing to push for an exit from the north-east, then the Gunners should have waited on Gyokeres so that they could potentially pursue the Newcastle talisman.

Instead, the tactician opted for the more swifter move in the Sporting star, and will now likely miss out on Isak as a result.

Signing Alexander Isak would’ve made Arsenal title favourites

Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City are arguably equal favourites to lift the Premier League title at the present moment, with all three sides conducting smart business this summer.

However, the addition of Isak would undoubtedly have made the Gunners clear favourites.

The 25-year-old’s movement in and around the box, as well as his ability to contribute in all other facets of the game, would’ve given Arsenal the missing piece they need to make their attack elite.

As shown by the data above, Isak’s numbers aren’t far off Gyokeres’, despite playing in a significantly more challenging league than his compatriot.

Exceptional at finding himself in goalscoring positions and finishing chances at a high rate, Isak is also an effective contributor to creating chances with smart combination play around the box.

His impact would’ve been transformational to Arsenal.