Arsenal is reportedly preparing a record-breaking bid to acquire Alexander Isak, as Newcastle United considers options to replace their star striker. Manager Mikel Arteta has expressed significant interest in strengthening Arsenal’s attack, with Isak emerging as the club’s top target.
While Arsenal has evaluated other striker options, such as Dusan Vlahovic and Jonathan David, neither appears to be the priority. Arteta’s admiration for Isak has positioned the Swedish international as the primary focus of Arsenal’s summer transfer plans.
However, securing Isak’s services won’t be straightforward, given Newcastle’s financial strength and Isak’s importance to the team.
Speaking on Curtis Shaw TV, football journalist Ben Jacobs shared insights into Arsenal’s pursuit of Isak, hinting at the possibility of a mirrored deal to facilitate the transfer. This type of deal involves two clubs exchanging players, either directly or through separate agreements, to meet the Premier League’s profit and sustainability regulations.
Jacobs highlighted that such arrangements are becoming increasingly popular, citing examples like Tottenham and Leeds swapping Joe Rodon and Archie Gray, as well as Newcastle’s similar deal involving Elliot Anderson and Odysseas Vlachodimos.
Jacobs suggested Arsenal might need to identify players that Newcastle would find appealing to make the transaction more financially feasible. The Gunners have several players who have previously attracted Newcastle’s interest, including Oleksandr Zinchenko, Reiss Nelson, and Leandro Trossard. While Newcastle pursued Zinchenko and Nelson in the past, Trossard was on their radar before his move from Brighton to Arsenal.
Given Isak’s estimated valuation of £200 million, Arsenal may need to part with one or more of these players to secure the deal. This strategy could benefit both clubs by helping them navigate financial regulations while addressing their respective squad needs.
Completing the transfer during the summer window will undoubtedly be complex. However, if Arsenal is determined to land Isak, they might have to sacrifice key players to meet Newcastle’s demands. As the summer approaches, this potential high-profile deal is one to watch closely.
