Barcelona and Arsenal Set to Battle for In-Form Newcastle Striker Alexander Isak

Barcelona and Arsenal are preparing for an exciting transfer battle as both clubs set their sights on one of the Premier League’s most in-form strikers, Alexander Isak. The Newcastle United forward, who has been a standout performer since his arrival on Tyneside, is reportedly on the radar of both European giants.

Barcelona’s Succession Plan for Lewandowski

The Catalan club, who are currently leading the La Liga table, are believed to be proactively planning for the future as they look to find a successor to their legendary striker, Robert Lewandowski. At 36 years old, Lewandowski is still in excellent form, leading the race for the La Liga Golden Boot, but Barcelona is eyeing a long-term replacement for the Polish international.

While several names have been linked with the club in recent months, the latest player to emerge as a serious target is Isak. The Swedish striker has been in superb form for Newcastle since his £60 million move from Real Sociedad, scoring 40 goals in 80 appearances. His impressive performances have not gone unnoticed, with Barcelona reportedly keen on bringing him back to La Liga, where he previously enjoyed a productive spell with Sociedad.

Arsenal’s Interest in the Swedish Forward

However, Barcelona’s interest in Isak will not go unchallenged, as Premier League rivals Arsenal are also said to be monitoring the situation closely. The Gunners have been linked with the striker in the past and are prepared to make a move for him at the end of the season. With Isak’s value continuing to rise due to his impressive performances for both club and country, Arsenal will look to secure his services to bolster their attacking options.

Alternative Targets for Arsenal

Should Arsenal fail to land Isak, they have reportedly identified two alternative targets in the form of Viktor Gyokeres and Mateo Retegui. Gyokeres, Isak’s international teammate, has impressed with his performances in the Championship for Coventry City, while Retegui has been making waves in Serie A with Genoa. However, both players are seen as second choices, with Isak being Arsenal’s top priority.

The Striker’s Future

As the transfer window approaches, the battle for Isak’s signature is expected to intensify. Barcelona and Arsenal are both keen to add a striker of his caliber to their squads, and with Isak’s contract at Newcastle running until 2028, any move will likely come with a hefty price tag. His ability to shine in multiple top leagues, combined with his international experience, makes him one of the most coveted young forwards in Europe.

As the race heats up, football fans across Europe will be keeping a close eye on whether Isak heads back to Spain or stays in the Premier League for the long term.