Newcastle Forward Future Uncertain Amid Arsenal and Liverpool Interest | OneFootball

Alexander Isak: The Future of Newcastle’s Star Striker Hangs in the Balance

Newcastle’s Champions League Dilemma

Alexander Isak has proven himself as one of the most electrifying forwards in the Premier League, drawing interest from some of Europe’s elite clubs. However, his future at Newcastle United may ultimately rest on whether Eddie Howe’s side can secure Champions League football next season, suggest reports from The Mirror.

With 21 goals and five assists in all competitions this season, Isak has been instrumental in Newcastle’s attacking setup. His performances have not gone unnoticed, with both Arsenal and Liverpool reportedly eyeing up a summer move. Yet, Newcastle are determined to keep hold of their talisman, placing a hefty £150 million price tag on the Swedish international while also working to extend his contract beyond 2028.

Emile Heskey, former England and Liverpool striker, believes Champions League qualification will be crucial in deciding whether Isak stays or goes. Heskey suggested there may even be a ‘gentleman’s agreement’ in place that allows Isak to leave if Newcastle fail to secure a top-four finish.

Photo: IMAGO

Arsenal and Liverpool Circle

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has long admired Isak, having previously attempted to sign him from Real Sociedad in 2022 before settling on Gabriel Jesus. The Gunners’ need for a clinical finisher remains evident, especially following their struggles in front of goal this season.

Liverpool, meanwhile, are reportedly seeking a top-class forward to bolster their attack. With Darwin Nunez failing to consistently impress and Mohamed Salah’s future still uncertain, Isak has emerged as a potential solution for incoming manager Arne Slot. The Swedish striker’s pace, movement, and finishing ability could make him a natural fit in Liverpool’s high-pressing, attack-minded system.

However, former Sunderland midfielder Bolo Zenden has cast doubt over whether Isak would be a guaranteed success at either Arsenal or Liverpool. He argues that Isak’s playing style may not immediately suit possession-based teams, stating:

“Isak, he’s a handful, a threat. He scores goals from either left or right. He’s got a lot of pace, but he has played in teams that were not always playing that possession game. So, if he moves to a team that dominates the game, where the spaces are getting very tight, it’s not particularly easy for a player like him.”

Can Newcastle Retain Their Star Striker?

Newcastle’s position in the Premier League table could play a decisive role in Isak’s future. Currently sitting in fifth place, the Magpies are in a strong position to qualify for the Champions League, particularly with UEFA’s new coefficient potentially allowing five English teams to enter next season’s competition.

Photo: IMAGO

Additionally, Newcastle are only one game away from securing Europa League football, with an upcoming Carabao Cup final against Liverpool offering another route into European competition. Given Isak’s ambitions, Europa League football might be enough to convince him to stay, as Zenden suggested:

“So I don’t think they need to play in the Champions League in order to keep him. As long as they play in Europe, that will probably be enough for Isak.”

However, Zenden also acknowledged that a move to a bigger club remains a strong possibility given Isak’s statistics and growing reputation:

“With his stats, it’s more likely that a bigger team will come along and try to persuade him to make a move.”

This leaves Newcastle in a precarious position. If they fail to secure Champions League football and a heavyweight club comes knocking, they may struggle to hold onto their star forward.

What’s Next for Isak?

Newcastle’s willingness to fight for Isak’s long-term commitment is evident, but their financial position also plays a role. While the club enjoys significant backing under their new ownership, Financial Fair Play restrictions mean they would likely need to sell a key player if they wish to reinvest heavily in their squad.

Arsenal and Liverpool will undoubtedly monitor the situation closely, especially if Newcastle fail to reach the top four. Given Isak’s attributes and his Premier League pedigree, a move to either of these sides could elevate him to the next level.

For now, his fate remains in Newcastle’s hands. But as the summer window approaches, the speculation around his future is only set to intensify.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

Excited Newcastle Fan Perspective:

Losing Alexander Isak would be a massive blow for Newcastle’s project. He’s not just a goalscorer—he’s the spearhead of Eddie Howe’s attack, capable of turning games on his own. Seeing clubs like Liverpool and Arsenal circling is frustrating but not surprising. However, if we secure Champions League football, we have every right to expect him to stay and be the focal point of our squad for years to come.

Expectant Arsenal Fan Perspective:

If Arteta could get his hands on Isak, it would be a game-changer. We lack a ruthless finisher, and Isak fits the bill perfectly. While the price tag is steep, the Gunners must be ambitious. If we fail to sign a top-class striker again, we’ll be left wondering what might have been.

Concerned Liverpool Fan Perspective:

Is Isak really the right fit for Liverpool? Sure, he’s got the goalscoring pedigree, but is he truly a replacement for someone like Salah if he leaves? The fee being quoted is astronomical, and while he’s a brilliant player, the club must ensure they’re making the right investment, especially with Arne Slot taking over and potentially reshaping our attack.

Newcastle have the power to dictate Isak’s future, but with Champions League football hanging in the balance, the summer could prove decisive for both player and club.