Arsenal ready to pounce? Mikel Arteta could capitalise on Alexander Isak's Newcastle contract standoff as Gunners target striker transfer

Isak has been a huge hit at Newcastle since signing from Real Sociedad in August 2022 for a club-record fee. The Sweden international's performances have seen him linked with Arsenal already as the forward is yet to commit to a long-term contract at St James' Park. Isak's existing deal runs until 2028 and talks over a new contract are continuing. According toSky Germany, Arsenal are "monitoring the situation" and the striker is on the club's list of options to strengthen the squad.

Arsenal do appear to be lacking a clinical finisher and have been linked with several other forwards such as Sporting CP's Viktor Gyokeres - who happens to be Isak's Sweden team-mate - and RB Leipzig star Benjamin Sesko. Isak also appears to be in the frame and could possibly be tempted away from St James' Park, particularly if Eddie Howe's side miss out on a top-four finish again this season.

Isak was fairly coy when speaking about his future over the international break. He told Fotbal Skanalen: “Throughout my career, I have never talked about or really commented on the move rumours during the season. There have been many such years where it has been talked about. It doesn’t affect me. The only thing I can say is that a lot of information and rumours often come out. Much of what I read is not true. So that’s about all I can say about the whole thing.”

Arsenal will come up against reported target Gyokeres in midweek against Sporting in the Champions League. The striker has five goals in four Champions League outings this season and will be aiming to add to his tally against the Gunners.