Newcastle boss Eddie Howe has responded to pleas surrounding Arsenal making a transfer switch for Alexander Isak in the market.
The Sweden international has impressed this season with 12 goals and four assists in 17 Premier League appearances.
It comes as little surprise that Arsenal want a transfer for Isak, given the fact he has been a long-term target since his Real Sociedad days.
However, since joining the Magpies and proving himself in England, that interest may have only heightened from the Gunners.
Newcastle want £150million for any Isak transfer this January though, showing just how desperate they are to keep the striker.
Despite that, Arsenal may still try their hand at securing a move, with one legend even pushing them to make a switch.
Eddie Howe responds to Paul Merson on Alexander Isak to Arsenal transfer
Recent days have seen Arsenal icon Paul Merson urge the side to “break the bank” to sign Isak in the transfer window.
It’s unclear if any bid, even a record-breaking one, would tempt Newcastle into accepting a move though.
That certainly doesn’t seem to be the stance of Eddie Howe, with the manager telling the press on Alexander Isak to Arsenal: “It’s the first time I’ve heard of [Merson’s claims] so I need to see the comments…
“Our players are loved by us and wanted by us. Their focus can only be on the here and now. I don’t see it being an issue for us, especially in this transfer window. The players are very focused.”
It certainly suggests that Isak won’t be on the move, even with Arsenal looking to make a push for the striker.
As Isak has just over three years remaining on his contract, any switch could take plenty of time to get over the line.
Alexander Isak transfer alternatives for Arsenal
While Isak is a clear favourite for some Arsenal supporters, his availability could be a clear problem for the club.
Some will be hoping that the club can break the bank to land him, but the reality is that Newcastle may not sell regardless of the offer.
That may cause a look into some alternatives, with plenty of options available on the market with varying degrees of quality.
For those with a bright future, the likes of Benjamin Sesko and Liam Delap could be options to land up front.
Clinical goal scorers could see Viktor Gyokeres and Victor Osimhen rumoured with potential switches to the club.
More technical operators, who play in deeper areas, could cause interest in Matheus Cunha and Joao Pedro as quality technicians.
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