Alexander Isak: Newcastle look to fend off Arsenal interest

Newcastle United have reportedly slapped a hefty price tag on Alexander Isak to fend off interest from Arsenal.

The Gunners have the Swiss striker on their transfer shortlist as they prepare to bolster their attack ahead of the next season. Mikel Arteta happens to be a huge admirer of Isak and is reportedly ready to splash the cash in the summer for a goalscoring forward after missing out on Brentford’s Ivan Toney in January.

According to The Telegraph, the Magpies remain firm on their stance that Isak is “not for sale” and the club is already working on an extension for the player despite having four more years in his current contract. Although it was reported that a £90m bid could potentially test their resolve, insiders at St. James Park claim they would seek double that amount to begin negotiations with any suitor.

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Earlier in March, Isak dispelled all doubts about his future and insisted that he remains committed to the project at Newcastle, despite swirling rumours about a move to north London.

“Of course, I want to be here at Newcastle in the future,” he had said. “I came here for the project, I absolutely love playing here, I really feel at home. It doesn’t affect me that much [transfer rumours]. It has been talked about many times, in many windows. I see it as just such a thing. Everyone knows that summer is coming and if things show up, things can happen, but I actually haven’t even thought about it.”

Isak ended the season with 25 goals in 40 appearances across competitions which saw his stock rise in the transfer market. And after firing on all cylinders with Newcastle, he will hope to replicate his form with the Swiss national team during the 2024 European Championship in Germany.