Arsenal 'suffer fresh striker blow as contract talks opened'

Newcastle United have reportedly opened contract talks with Alexander Isak, with the Magpies determined to keep hold of the Sweden international this summer.

The 24-year-old was in impressive form for Eddie Howe's side during the 2023-24 campaign, scoring 25 goals and registering two assists in 40 appearances in all competitions.

Isak only managed one goal in the group stage of the Champions League, but he scored 21 times in the Premier League during a strong domestic campaign.

Since arriving at St James' Park from Real Sociedad in August 2022, the Swede has scored 35 goals and registered five assists in 67 appearances in all competitions at club level.

Arsenal are in the market for a new striker this summer, and it is understood that the Gunners have identified Isak as a leading target.

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Newcastle 'open contract talks with Isak'

However, according to Football Insider, Newcastle have opened talks with the striker over a new deal, with Arsenal handed a blow when it comes to their pursuit of him.

The report claims that Isak is set to be offered a contract which would make him one of the highest earners at St James' Park alongside Bruno Guimaraes and Kieran Trippier.

Despite Newcastle's substantial wealth, it has been claimed that the Magpies could be forced into some sales this summer to ensure that they comply with financial regulations.

Isak has been mentioned as a player capable of raising a high transfer fee, but it appears that Howe's side are not willing to discuss an exit for the Swede this summer.

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Where do Arsenal go from here?

There is certainly a lack of attainable strikers of the required standard this summer, and Arsenal appear to have dropped their interest in Napoli's Victor Osimhen due to his €130m (£110.6m) release clause.

Kai Havertz performed impressively as a centre-forward for Arsenal on a number of occasions last season, but the Gunners need a genuine striker next term if they are to again challenge for major silverware.

Talk of a move for Brentford's Ivan Toney has gone cold, while even Bournemouth's Dominic Solanke could cost £65m, with the Cherries not believed to be willing to let him leave for under his release clause.

Arsenal are also said to still be interested in Bologna's Joshua Zirkzee, but none of the names above, arguably aside from Osimhen, would fill the club's fans with too much excitement.

Manchester United and Chelsea are two other Premier League powerhouses looking to sign new strikers this summer, but it is currently a very difficult market.