Throughout the 2024 season, Arsenal’s search for a top-tier striker has been a frequent topic of conversation among fans and analysts, who see a need for a clinical number nine in the squad.
Although Arsenal considered several striker options during the summer transfer window, they ultimately decided not to make an acquisition, opting to rely on the current lineup to deliver the necessary goals.
However, sports journalist Charles Watts believes that Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak could be an ideal solution for Arsenal and a great fit for Mikel Arteta’s squad.
Isak has previously been linked with Arsenal in discussions, though no official approach was ever made.
According to Watts, Isak has the qualities Arsenal needs in a striker—speed, skill, and a strong finishing ability that would seamlessly blend into Arteta’s tactical system.
The Swedish forward has been a key player for Newcastle, showcasing his impressive finishing and technical skills, which Watts argues could add a much-needed edge to Arsenal’s attacking play.
It is reported that Arteta has been closely monitoring striker options, aware that his side lacks a pure number nine with the composure and instinct of a traditional forward.
While Kai Havertz has done well in an advanced role, providing goals and assists, he is more of a versatile playmaker than a classic striker.
Watts feels that although Havertz and other Arsenal players contribute creatively, Isak could offer the finishing precision that the team has been missing.
During the summer, Arsenal was also linked to Viktor Gyokeres from Sporting CP, who had an outstanding season in Portugal, netting 43 goals in 50 games.
However, despite interest, Arsenal ultimately decided against pursuing Gyokeres, keeping the possibility open to search for a striker in the next transfer window.
As Newcastle has faced challenges in securing a long-term contract with Isak, Watts sees an opportunity for Arsenal to consider.
In a recent column for CaughtOffside, Watts shared his high opinion of Isak, describing him as the “perfect” fit for Arsenal if they choose to add a forward in the upcoming summer window.
“I’ve always thought Alexander Isak is a great fit for Arsenal. If he becomes available, he would be at the top of my list,” Watts stated.
He added that Isak’s skillset aligns well with Arsenal’s goals and could provide the consistency of a traditional striker that Arsenal has been lacking for some time.
However, signing Isak wouldn’t come easily. He is currently under contract with Newcastle until 2028, giving the club leverage to retain him or request a substantial transfer fee.
Newcastle has also been firm about keeping Isak, considering him vital to their long-term plans.
Even with negotiations on a new contract stalling, any potential transfer would likely require a significant offer to sway Newcastle’s stance.
Newcastle’s manager, Eddie Howe, is a strong believer in Isak’s potential and would likely resist any move that could see him leave.
Nevertheless, Watts suggests that if Arsenal were prepared to make a sizable investment, it might open the door to acquiring a high-caliber goal scorer at the Emirates.
The journalist pointed out that the pause in contract talks might change the circumstances, particularly if Newcastle believes that Isak might be open to exploring options elsewhere.
“The main challenge is that Isak’s contract doesn’t expire until 2028, so Newcastle is still in a strong position,” Watts noted.
“It would take a massive offer to lure him from St. James’ Park, and whether Arsenal is ready to invest that kind of money in a striker remains uncertain.”
For Arsenal fans, the potential of bringing Isak to Arteta’s team by 2025 is exciting. Isak’s consistency and finishing ability could be the boost Arsenal needs in attack, while his tactical intelligence and adaptability would make him an ideal addition to Arteta’s evolving system.
