Eddie Howe has hinted Newcastle could struggle to keep their best stars this summer. (Image: Getty)
Eddie Howe may have put Arsenal chiefs on alert regarding Alexander Isak’s future, with his latest comments. The Gunners are believed to be on the lookout for a new centre-forward, having finished behind champions Manchester City in the Premier League for a second consecutive season.
No player in the Arsenal squad reached the 20-goal mark in the Premier League this term, even though the capital club scored 91 goals during their 38 outings.
There was no such problem for Isak, who netted a handsome 21 league goals this term, with the Swede rumoured to be on Arsenal’s list of summer transfer targets.
And the Emirates Stadium outfit could snatch the 24-year-old for a smaller fee this summer, following Newcastle United’s seventh-placed finish and Manchester United’s FA Cup triumph.
That’s because the Magpies won’t be competing in Europe next season, meaning they could be forced to cash in on their best talent in order to comply with FFP regulations.
It’s something manager Howe has spoken about, with the ex-Bournemouth coach telling The Chronicle: “It is all about next season now. It’ll be good to be back on home soil and start preparing for next season.
“European qualification is massive in terms of revenue. It plays a part in the future.”
Read more… Man Utd target’s career was almost ended after being hit by car and put in coma [LATEST]
Alexander Isak netted 21 goals in the Premier League for Newcastle. (Image: Getty)
The North East-based side were boosted by Champions League revenue this season, but without the footfall from European competition, the likes of Isak might have to be sold.
Initial suggestions hinted that a figure close to £200million would be needed to release Isak from his Newcastle contract, with insiders at Newcastle having reportedly laughed off claims he’d be available for under £100million.
However, with clubs across the division feeling the squeeze from Profit and Sustainability Rules, the Newcastle chiefs may have to consider a reduced-price sale.
Away from the Isak saga, Newcastle are likely to be busy operators in the market, with Howe hoping to freshen his squad in the off-season.
On Newcastle’s transfer plans, the Englishman said: “It’s very early days but it will be a long summer. We are working hard to get our targets identified and begin negotiations.
Don’t miss…
Chelsea in worrying U-turn as Todd Boehly and co spark concern [REPORT]
Man City to net £20m thanks to Southampton winning Championship play-off final [NEWS]
Chelsea ‘trying last-minute transfer hijack’ to sting Premier League rivals [LATEST]
Man United winning the FA Cup blocked Newcastle’s qualification for Europe. (Image: Getty)
“There are a lot of unknowns in the market, we will see how things fall for us.”
He added: “I don’t think it will be an overhaul but I am not in control of it. Some things might happen so you don’t know.
“I have seen it so many times where things you don’t expect unfold. So we have to be ready to adapt.
“I think the most important thing that must happen is we have a stronger squad at the end of this window when we leave it.
“But there’s no guarantees of that. I can only work as hard as I possibly can to make sure it happens.”
Source: https://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/1904129/Eddie-Howe-Newcastle-transfer-hint-Arsenal