Arsenal have held an interest in Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak for some time and may now sense an opportunity to seal a deal for his services.
Mikel Arteta has good reason to want to add a new goalscorer to his ranks at Arsenal, despite the sensational recent form of Kai Havertz.
Whilst the German has been enjoying a prolific streak of late, and has now cemented himself as the Gunners’ first choice to lead the line, Arteta may want more depth in that part of the pitch.
Havertz is nursing a knee issue, which could become agitated and see him sidelined for a spell. Meanwhile, Gabriel Jesus’ form does not inspire confidence that he would be able to step up and deliver in the former Chelsea man’s absence.
As such, the Gunners could reignite their interest in Alexander Isak.
Arsenal could have Alexander Isak transfer opportunity
Arsenal have been linked with Isak before, and it is easy to see why Arteta is so keen on the Swedish striker.
The 25-year-old has been sensational for the Magpies, and boasts the attributes that Arteta likes in his forwards. The 48-cap Sweden international provides searing pace, physically, clinical finishing, brilliant technical ability, and he competes fiercely in his duels.
Newcastle are desperate to keep Isak. He is a star player for the Tyneside outfit. However, he has so far refused to agree to a new deal that will secure his future at St James’ Park.
Journalist Graeme Bailey, speaking exclusively to Arsenal Insider, has now explained how the contract talks may play into Arsenal’s hands.
He said: “The fact it has stalled is something that clearly will alert Arsenal and Chelsea, but Newcastle firmly believe he will sign.
“We don’t know why the deal has stalled, it doesn’t appear to be purely money related – but it could be over a clause or even that he is looking to move sooner rather than later, although unlikely as he is costing himself a lot of money by not signing – he is not one of their highest paid players at this point.”
Could Arsenal sign Isak?
Whilst there is certainly some uncertainty about the forward’s future, there are also reasons for Arsenal fans not to get too carried away about the prospect of Isak making the switch to the Emirates Stadium.
The Gunners would have to offer him a huge wage increase, and although he is yet to agree terms with Newcastle, the club would still demand an enormous fee from Arsenal in exchange for his services.
Whilst a summer move would be somewhat more likely, it would probably be all but impossible for Arteta to coax Isak to North London in the upcoming January transfer window due to the costs involved in such a deal.
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