Newcastle United make ‘old-fashioned striker’ their top target to replace Alexander Isak
Newcastle United Draw Up Contingency Plans as Alexander Isak Pushes for Liverpool Move – Jean-Philippe Mateta Emerges as Priority Target
Newcastle United are preparing for a potentially seismic change in their attacking line-up this summer, with star striker Alexander Isak’s future at St. James’ Park hanging by a thread. According to transfer insider Rudy Galetti, the Magpies have already identified Crystal Palace’s in-form forward Jean-Philippe Mateta as a leading candidate to fill the void should the Swedish international force through a move to Liverpool.
The situation surrounding Isak has escalated sharply in recent weeks. Once seen as a cornerstone of Newcastle’s project under Eddie Howe, the 24-year-old is now determined to bring his time on Tyneside to an abrupt end. Reports indicate that Isak has made up his mind not to represent the club again, with just under three weeks remaining before the summer transfer window slams shut. His preferred destination is clear—Anfield—and the striker is said to be applying significant pressure behind the scenes to seal a high-profile switch to Jurgen Klopp’s side.
Mateta Moves Into Newcastle’s Focus
In preparation for a possible departure, Newcastle’s recruitment team have shifted their attention towards viable replacements, with Jean-Philippe Mateta standing out as the frontrunner. The Frenchman has enjoyed a resurgence in his form at Selhurst Park, earning plaudits for his robust playing style, aerial dominance, and sharp finishing in front of goal.
Eddie Howe is known to value attackers who can quickly slot into his high-intensity, pressing system. Mateta’s experience in English football, coupled with his proven Premier League goal record, makes him a particularly attractive proposition. His physicality and presence in the box could offer Newcastle a different but equally dangerous focal point in attack.
However, prising the 27-year-old away from South London will not be straightforward. Crystal Palace have reportedly increased their asking price to around £40 million—a figure that reflects both Mateta’s importance to Oliver Glasner’s squad and his recent contributions on the pitch. Palace are not under any financial pressure to sell and would only sanction his exit if their valuation is met in full.
A Decision That Could Shape Newcastle’s Season
The next few weeks will be crucial for Newcastle’s transfer strategy. If Isak remains at the club beyond the deadline, Mateta might stay on the Magpies’ radar without immediate action being taken. But should the Swedish forward get his wish and head to Merseyside, Newcastle are expected to waste no time in pursuing a deal for the Palace striker.
Even outside the transfer speculation, Mateta’s stock continues to rise. Arsenal legend and current France U-21 coach Thierry Henry has spoken glowingly about him in the past, describing him as an “old-fashioned striker” with a rare blend of physical strength and natural goalscoring instinct—attributes that could make him a key figure in Newcastle’s frontline if the move materialises.
For now, the Magpies’ fanbase waits anxiously, aware that the outcome of the Isak saga could dramatically alter the club’s ambitions for the 2025/26 season.