Arsenal’s pursuit of Alexander Isak could be affected by Newcastle United’s latest appointment. The Gunners have been heavily linked with a move for Isak in recent months, with a new striker being tipped to be a priority during the summer transfer window.
Mikel Arteta is yet to make any new signings so far this summer, but that has not stopped rumours swirling of players who are potential targets. Isak is one player who has been credited as a target for Arsenal in recent reports.
The Sweden international moved to Newcastle from Real Sociedad two years ago in a deal worth more than £60 million. Reports in recent weeks have suggested that Newcastle may demand close to £200 million to allow Isak to leave the club.
The St James’ Park outfit were forced to sell Elliot Anderson and Yankuba Minteh in order to comply with the June 30 deadline for the Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR). There are still rumours that Newcastle could need to sell more players this summer, leading to suggestions that Arsenal may still have a chance to sign Isak.
Thanks to the latest appointment by the Magpies, there is likely to be even more speculation. Newcastle confirmed the appointment of Paul Mitchell as their new sporting director on Wednesday.
Mitchell will replace Dan Ashworth, who left to take on the same role at Manchester United earlier this week. He will be tasked with overseeing Newcastle’s transfer strategy this summer, which will include buying and selling players. One of Mitchell’s tasks will be determining the future of Isak amid links to Arsenal.
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It remains to be seen if Mitchell will follow Ashworth’s lead in being determined to keep Isak at St James’ Park this summer, especially if Arsenal submit an official bid. Regardless, there is likely to be more speculation about the striker’s future now that a new sporting director has been appointed at Newcastle.
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