Alexander Isak’s possible move to Arsenal has been widely discussed, with reports indicating that his jersey number has already been decided. The Swedish forward has reportedly agreed to the terms of the transfer.
However, the major hurdle remains the transfer fee. While Arsenal is willing to offer €95 million, Newcastle United values Isak at €150 million, complicating negotiations. Some reports even suggest Newcastle’s asking price could have risen to £170 million, which may deter Arsenal due to Premier League Profitability and Sustainability Rules.
Despite Arsenal’s long-standing interest in Isak, the transfer seems unlikely in the near future. The club missed the opportunity to sign him when he was at Real Sociedad, and he later joined Newcastle, where he has thrived as a clinical striker.
Arsenal’s struggles in attack this season have intensified the need for a top-tier forward. While Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz have contributed to the attack, neither has demonstrated the consistent goal-scoring form that Isak offers.
The club’s recent Carabao Cup defeat to Newcastle highlighted the need for a more reliable finisher, as Isak took full advantage of his only opportunity in that match.
Nonetheless, Arsenal’s financial flexibility may be limited. Last summer, they made significant investments in players like David Raya, Mikel Merino, and Riccardo Calafiori, while selling key players to maintain balance. Owner Stan Kroenke is reportedly hesitant to pursue Isak because of his hefty price tag.
Additionally, Arsenal may look to sell Gabriel Jesus and Oleksandr Zinchenko in upcoming transfer windows, and Thomas Partey could also leave as his contract nears its end.
While Arsenal is eager to secure a world-class striker, financial limitations and Newcastle’s high valuation of Isak make the transfer seem improbable in the near term.
