Arsenal learn Alexander Isak transfer stance as decision made for deadline day

Arsenal have ended their pursuit of Newcastle’s star striker Alexander Isak as the summer transfer window draws to a close. Despite being active on the final day, with Bournemouth’s Neto set to replace new Southampton recruit Aaron Ramsdale as back-up goalkeeper and Raheem Sterling still in their sights, Mikel Arteta’s Gunners have yet to secure a top-tier No. 9.

They’ve been linked with several high-profile players, including Ivan Toney, who looks to be heading to Saudi Arabia, and Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres, but no deals have been finalised. While Arsenal hold Isak in high regard, it appears he will remain at St. James’s Park for the time being, leaving Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz to spearhead Arteta’s attack.

Prior to his move to Newcastle, Arsenal had scouted the then-Real Sociedad player but were unwilling to meet his £77million release clause. The Sweden international, who was bought by Newcastle for £63m in 2022, had an impressive season last year, scoring 21 league goals – a tally only surpassed by Erling Haaland and Cole Palmer – and attracted interest from several leading European clubs, including Arsenal.

The Gunners’ interest in Isak was first reported by The Guardian back in April, suggesting that a hefty £100m fee might persuade Newcastle to let go of their star striker. The ball really got rolling in June when it became clear that the Magpies would struggle to meet the Premier League’s profit and sustainability rules deadline at the end of the month and could head to panic stations.

Liverpool were among the clubs ready to capitalise on this situation, submitting a bid for winger Anthony Gordon. Arsenal were also reportedly ready to swoop in for Isak, but Newcastle managed to balance their books through other means.

Instead of splurging on Isak, Arsenal decided to focus on bringing in David Raya, Riccardo Calafiori, and Mikel Merino. With their budget significantly reduced and the transfer deadline looming, it seems unlikely that the 24-year-old forward will be heading to the Emirates this summer.

Isak’s manager, Eddie Howe, spoke highly of his player, stating: “For me, I think the biggest thing is would I swap him with anybody else? No, I wouldn’t. When you look at his age profile and what’s to come, you look at his attributes and his qualities, he’s some talent.”

Isak has played 68 times for the Magpies, scoring 35 goals. At Real Sociedad, he netted 44 times in 132 appearances. He also had a short stint at Dortmund, though netted just once in 13 games.