Alexander Isak Transfer Rumours Latest
If you had to pick one striker in the Premier League who seems to be “too good” for the team they currently play for, the majority of people would probably say it’s Newcastle’s Swedish striker Alexander Isak.
He has emerged as one of the most sought-after players in the upcoming summer transfer window, with Liverpool and Arsenal reportedly interested in securing his services. However, Newcastle’s ability to retain their talisman may hinge on their qualification for the UEFA Champions League next season.
Isak’s Form and Newcastle’s Champions League Hopes
The 25-year-old Swedish striker has been in phenomenal form, netting 25 goals and providing six assists in 34 appearances for club and country this season. His performances have been pivotal for Newcastle, including goals against Arsenal in both the Premier League and Carabao Cup.
Despite Newcastle’s reluctance to part ways with Isak, they have placed a hefty price tag of approximately £150 million on him and are keen to extend his contract beyond 2028. Former Liverpool and England forward Emile Heskey believes Newcastle’s success in securing Champions League qualification could be a decisive factor in whether Isak stays or leaves St. James’ Park.
Currently sitting sixth in the Premier League, Newcastle remain in contention for a top-four finish, which could be boosted by UEFA’s coefficient rankings allowing five English clubs to qualify next season. Additionally, they are on the brink of securing a Europa League spot, with the Carabao Cup final against Liverpool offering another potential route to European competition.
Zenden and Scholes Weigh In on Isak’s Future
While some believe Champions League football will be the key to keeping Isak at Newcastle, former Sunderland player Bolo Zenden disagrees. He argued that while Isak is thriving in the Premier League with 19 goals and five assists, he does not necessarily need Champions League football to stay motivated.
“As long as they play in Europe, that will probably be enough for Isak,” Zenden remarked. “But with his stats, it’s more likely that a bigger team will come along and try to persuade him to make a move.”
Former Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes, however, believes Isak should aim even higher than Arsenal. Speaking on The Overlap, Scholes suggested that clubs like Liverpool, Manchester City, and Real Madrid would be better options for the Swedish striker.
“Everyone loves him but I don’t see a possibility of him going to Arsenal,” Scholes said. “He needs to go bigger and better. We’re talking about Real Madrid here; Liverpool need a centre forward. Arsenal would be an option, but they would be down the list.”
Liverpool’s Interest and Potential Swap Deal
Liverpool, currently leading the Premier League, are actively looking to reinforce their attack amid concerns over Darwin Nunez’s inconsistency and Mohamed Salah’s uncertain future. Reports indicate that Liverpool manager Arne Slot is keen to make a marquee signing, and Isak fits the profile of the prolific No.9 they desire.
The Daily Express claims Newcastle may be forced into a reluctant sale due to Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) and their interest in two Liverpool defenders, Jarell Quansah and Joe Gomez, could lead to a blockbuster swap deal. This would potentially give Arne Slot’s side a strong negotiating position in their pursuit of Isak.
Liverpool’s financial flexibility also plays a role. Having refrained from making significant investments in the past two transfer windows, the club is preparing for what sources describe as a “historic transfer window.” Reports suggest Liverpool have set aside £200 million for reinforcements, making them one of the few clubs capable of meeting Newcastle’s valuation.
Newcastle’s Plans for the Future
Despite growing speculation, Newcastle manager Eddie Howe remains determined to keep Isak. He has compared Isak’s importance to Newcastle with Erling Haaland’s role at Manchester City, underlining the Swede’s value to his team.
“I love working with Alex, and I wouldn’t swap him for anyone,” Howe said. “We’ve tried to help him by moulding our style of play to suit his game. Since he’s come to this club, I think he’s been sensational for us.”
However, Newcastle are aware of the potential need to replace Isak should he depart. The club has reportedly identified Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres, Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitike, and FC Porto’s Samu Omorodion as potential replacements. The latter, in particular, has caught the attention of several European clubs, including Tottenham Hotspur and Bayern Munich, after scoring 14 goals in 20 Primeira Liga matches this season.
Conclusion
Isak’s future at Newcastle remains uncertain, with his decision likely influenced by Newcastle’s final league standing and potential European qualification. While Arsenal and Liverpool remain frontrunners for his signature, Newcastle’s valuation and Isak’s personal ambitions will ultimately shape the summer’s transfer saga.
Liverpool’s financial power, their need for a new striker, and the possibility of a swap deal involving Quansah and Gomez make them a strong contender. However, if Newcastle secures Champions League football and offers Isak an improved contract, he may yet decide to stay and lead the Magpies into another European campaign.
Regardless of the outcome, Isak’s transfer saga is set to be one of the most intriguing stories of the summer window.