Transfer journalist David Ornstein has provided an update on Arsenal’s interest in Newcastle United star Alexander Isak. According to Ornstein, while Newcastle are unwilling to part with their prolific striker, the 25-year-old remains at the top of Arsenal’s transfer wishlist, with Mikel Arteta reportedly "would love to sign him."
Isak has been in sensational form for the Magpies, currently sitting third in the Premier League goal-scoring charts with 19 goals this season. This impressive tally follows his 21-goal campaign last season, establishing him as one of the Premier League’s elite strikers.
Arsenal’s Striker Dilemma
The Gunners’ need for a natural striker has become increasingly apparent this season:
- Current options Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus are both out for the season
- Arsenal failed to secure a striker in the January transfer window
- Consistent goal-scoring has become an issue in recent matches
- Fans have criticized the club for not strengthening this position earlier
Newcastle, however, have no intention of selling their prized asset. According to Ornstein, the Magpies are even looking to extend Isak’s contract, which currently runs until 2028.
Champions League qualification could play a decisive role in Isak’s future. Should Newcastle fail to secure a top-four finish, clubs like Arsenal and Liverpool might become increasingly appealing options for the Swedish international.
Merson Weighs in on Arsenal’s UCL Prospects
Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson has shared his thoughts on Arsenal’s preferred Champions League quarter-final opponents. The former Arsenal player believes the Gunners would fare better against Atletico Madrid than Real Madrid:
"I think if Atletico Madrid win, Arsenal have a bit of a chance. I think that’ll be a tight game, Atletico Madrid don’t blow anybody away – they play a certain style of football," Merson said.
He added: "But if they play against Real Madrid, I don’t know if they’re going to be able to live with them with goalscoring over two legs, especially with the players that are out for Arsenal."
Arsenal are virtually guaranteed to advance to the quarter-finals after their emphatic 7-1 victory over PSV Eindhoven in the first leg of their Round of 16 tie. The Champions League represents Arsenal’s best chance of securing silverware this season, as they’ve been eliminated from domestic cup competitions and trail Liverpool by 15 points in the Premier League.
With the summer transfer window approaching, Arsenal’s pursuit of a world-class striker will be crucial for their ambitions next season. While Alexander Isak appears to be their primary target, Newcastle’s determination to keep him means Arsenal may need to explore alternatives or prepare an exceptionally compelling offer.
Are you excited about the possibility of Isak joining Arsenal? Which striker do you think would be the best fit for Arteta’s system? Share your thoughts in the comments below!