EPL Index
·26 January 2025
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·26 January 2025
Newcastle United’s stance on Alexander Isak is clear: the Swedish striker is not for sale at any price. As The Telegraph reports, the Magpies are set to reward his stellar performances with a lucrative new deal, ensuring he remains at St James’ Park long-term.
Isak’s recent brace against Southampton, including a composed penalty conversion and a stunning finish, only reinforced his importance to Eddie Howe’s side. “The Sweden international caused havoc all afternoon and could have had a second hat-trick of the campaign.” These words from The Telegraph encapsulate how lethal he has been in front of goal this season.
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With 19 goals in 25 appearances, Isak has established himself as one of the Premier League’s most complete forwards. His ability to drop deep, play out wide, and operate as a clinical poacher gives Newcastle a cutting edge few teams can match. His contributions are pivotal as Newcastle chase Champions League qualification—a factor that will undoubtedly influence contract negotiations.
Despite three-and-a-half years remaining on his current deal, Newcastle are keen to secure Isak’s long-term future. Talks were initially postponed, but The Telegraph now reveals that negotiations are set to resume at the end of the season, ensuring distractions are kept to a minimum.
“Isak has repeatedly said he is happy and settled on Tyneside,” the report states, which should give Newcastle fans some confidence. However, the club also knows that a new contract must reflect his growing stature. Making him their highest-paid player would be a statement of intent, reaffirming their ambition to build around him.
Newcastle’s commitment to Isak is unwavering. When speculation linking him with a move away gained traction, the club slapped a staggering £150 million price tag on him. “That prompted Newcastle to put a price tag of more than £150 million on him just before the transfer window opened to deter any potential suitors, but the chatter has continued.” The sheer scale of that valuation underlines their determination to fend off interest, particularly from Arsenal, who are reportedly admirers.
There has been persistent chatter about Arsenal’s interest, with some seeing Isak as the closest thing to Thierry Henry since the legendary Frenchman hung up his boots. The similarities are undeniable—the elegant dribbling, the movement, the ability to play across the frontline.
However, as The Telegraph notes, Newcastle are unmoved by speculation: “Newcastle, though, are unmoved by what they perceive to be constant attempts to unsettle Isak.” Financial constraints mean Arsenal, or any European suitor, would struggle to match Newcastle’s valuation. With Isak integral to Howe’s project, Newcastle are under no pressure to sell, making any move highly unlikely unless the striker pushes for it—which he has given no indication of doing.
Securing Champions League football would add another layer of security to Newcastle’s plans. The Telegraph notes that Isak’s representatives are keen to see where Newcastle finish before finalising contract details. The Magpies’ win over Southampton has strengthened their position in the European qualification race, further boosting the club’s leverage.
Meanwhile, the club is also making moves elsewhere. Newcastle have reportedly agreed on a fee with Atlanta United for Miguel Almirón, a player who has played a crucial role in recent years. “Although he is no longer integral to Howe’s first-team plans, Almirón, who was a club-record £21 million from MLS in January 2019, has been a popular player on Tyneside,” The Telegraph notes.
While additional funds from his sale could aid future recruitment, Newcastle appear content to wait until summer before making major acquisitions. Profitability and Sustainability Rules will impact Premier League clubs, and Newcastle aim to be in a strong position when the transfer market opens.
Newcastle fans should be expectant about the club’s aggressive stance on Alexander Isak. It’s a bold statement of intent—ensuring their most valuable asset stays while fending off elite-level interest.
A few years ago, the idea of Newcastle confidently shutting down a move for a striker of Isak’s quality would have been unthinkable. Yet, under Eddie Howe and the new ownership, Newcastle are operating like a true powerhouse. They aren’t just fighting to keep their stars; they are planning long-term dominance.
For Arsenal fans, this report will be a bitter pill to swallow. Many had hoped Isak would be the missing piece in their title chase. The comparisons to Henry make sense, but if Newcastle keep improving, why would he swap a rising force for a club still searching for silverware?
Ultimately, Isak’s decision will be driven by ambition. If Newcastle deliver Champions League football, there’s little reason for him to leave. If they stumble, the whispers will grow louder. Until then, Newcastle hold the cards—and they’re playing them masterfully.
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