Arsenal legend Ian Wright has voiced his concerns that Alexander Isak could reject a move to his former club in favor of joining a Premier League rival, a potential setback for Mikel Arteta as he looks to reinforce his attacking options.
The Newcastle United striker has emerged as a prime target for Arsenal, with Arteta reportedly eager to bring in a world-class No.9. Isak, who has been in outstanding form for the Magpies this season, is considered the ideal fit for the Gunners’ frontline. However, there is growing uncertainty over whether Arsenal can secure his signature, especially with fierce competition from other English giants.
Arsenal’s Striker Crisis and the Need for Isak
Arsenal’s need for a top-tier striker has become even more urgent following injuries to both Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz, ruling them out for the remainder of the season. Many expected the club to reinforce the squad in the January transfer window, but Arsenal ultimately opted against making a move—an omission that now seems costly as they push for a Premier League title challenge.
Despite missing out on Isak in January, Arsenal are still highly interested in making a summer bid for the Sweden international. However, their pursuit faces a major hurdle: Newcastle’s £120m asking price. The Magpies refused to budge on their valuation during the winter window, and while Arsenal are prepared to spend big on a striker this summer, it remains to be seen if they are willing to meet Newcastle’s financial demands.
Arteta’s side has been a serious contender in the Premier League title race for the past two seasons but has so far fallen short. This season, they currently sit in second place, trailing runaway leaders Liverpool by 13 points with just 11 games remaining. If Arsenal are to close the gap on their rivals and take the next step towards winning the league, signing a proven goal scorer like Isak could be the missing piece.
Isak’s Sensational Season Attracts Heavy Interest
Isak has been nothing short of sensational for Newcastle this season, scoring 19 goals in 24 Premier League appearances. His impressive form has naturally attracted interest from other top Premier League clubs, including Liverpool, Manchester United, and Chelsea, all of whom are searching for a new central striker.
Liverpool, in particular, have emerged as a serious contender for his signature. Arne Slot, who is set to take over as manager at Anfield, will be looking to strengthen his attacking options, and with Darwin Núñez struggling for consistency, Isak could be the perfect solution to lead Liverpool’s front line.
Ian Wright’s Worries: Isak More Likely to Pick Liverpool
Arsenal legend Ian Wright has made it abundantly clear that he wants Isak at the Emirates, stating that he would have no hesitation in paying £120m to bring him to North London. Speaking on The Overlap with Sky Bet, Wright said:
“With what Alexander Isak has done and who he is, I would buy him for £120m, no danger. If we could get him, you need to chase that. I would be devastated if Arsenal weren’t in for him.”
However, when pressed on whether he believes Isak would choose Arsenal or Liverpool, Wright admitted that he fears Liverpool might be the more attractive option.
“He would probably go to Liverpool. I’d like to think Mikel Arteta could convince him, but look at Liverpool and Arne Slot. Slot hasn’t even got his own players in yet. That seems like a more attractive proposition. But again, Arsenal will need to do the work. I would hate it if it was between Arsenal and Liverpool because he would probably go for Liverpool with the way it’s gone for Arne Slot.”
Jamie Carragher: Isak Could Still Stay at Newcastle
While Arsenal and Liverpool are both expected to be in the market for a striker, former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher believes Newcastle could still have a fighting chance of holding onto their star forward.
Carragher acknowledged that Newcastle’s steep asking price might not deter Liverpool, referencing their £110m bid for Moisés Caicedo before he ultimately joined Chelsea. However, he also noted that Isak’s long-term contract—which runs for another three years—gives Newcastle some leverage.
“Arsenal and Liverpool will both be in the market for a new striker. I know this will upset Newcastle fans, but do you think it’s realistic that another Premier League club could sign Isak? Would anyone be willing to go to £120-130m? He’s got three years on his contract, so he’s not going to go for nothing anytime soon.
“I don’t think Liverpool would be too worried about paying that. They made a £110m bid for Caicedo before he went to Chelsea. You’re going to get four or five seasons out of Isak.”
Newcastle’s best chance of keeping hold of Isak may depend on their ability to qualify for the Champions League. The Magpies currently sit sixth in the Premier League table, but with fifth place potentially securing Champions League football this season, there is still hope for Eddie Howe’s side to retain their star striker.
What’s Next in the Isak Transfer Saga?
With Arsenal and Liverpool both needing a marquee striker and Manchester United and Chelsea also lurking, the race for Isak’s signature is set to heat up in the summer transfer window.
For Arsenal, their biggest challenge will be convincing Isak that the Emirates is the right destination for his career while also ensuring they match Newcastle’s valuation. Meanwhile, Liverpool’s resurgence under Arne Slot could make them an irresistible option, especially with their history of competing for major trophies.
As for Newcastle, their European ambitions could be the deciding factor. If they secure Champions League qualification, they will have a strong case to convince Isak to stay and help them push for silverware in the coming seasons.
One thing is certain—Isak’s future will be one of the biggest transfer stories of the summer.
“I know Newcastle fans don’t like us that match, but.. “- Arsenal Legend Ian Wright sends devastating News to Newcastle on the sale of €120m ISAK to PL rivals despite Arsenal meeting all the conditions to sign him first, CARRAGHER disagrees
