Arsenal sent strong Alexander Isak message as Newcastle boss Eddie Howe reveals frustration at continued transfer links

The Gunners have been linked with a move for the Swede this summer as they search for a new centre-forward but Newcastle are not under pressure to sell and Howe has stated the stories are "a source of frustration".

Howe told reporters: "It’s a source of frustration because I don't see why our players are getting linked, here, there and everywhere with other clubs. I'd like to think the players are happy here. I'd like to think again that they're seeing us grow and develop into a team that hopefully can compete at the top end of the division. Our ability financially to compete during the last few years has been hampered by profit and sustainability rules, but those issues aren’t there for the coming transfer window. So I don’t see any reason why we can’t strengthen, not weaken, ourselves.”

Newcastle could beat Arsenal for the fourth time this season when the two sides meet at the Emirates on Sunday and have made huge progress this term, including ending their 70-year wait for silverware in the Carabao Cup. In that context, Howe expects to be able to keep his best players this summer.

The Magpies would all-but secure their place in next season's Champions League by winning that Arsenal clash. They then face Everton at St James' Park to finish the campaign next week.