Arsenal is reportedly interested in signing a top striker from another Premier League club, and new developments have surfaced.
Mikel Arteta’s squad has had a tough start to the season, hampered by several injuries, including captain Martin Odegaard, who has been out since early September.
To complicate matters, recent red cards for Declan Rice, Leandro Trossard, and William Saliba have limited Arteta’s options. Nevertheless, the team has performed well under these challenging conditions, currently sitting third in the league, five points behind leaders Manchester City (prior to today’s match against Newcastle).
Despite their good standing, Arsenal has faced criticism for lacking a clinical edge in front of goal.
In contrast to teams like Manchester City and Liverpool, which have prolific scorers such as Erling Haaland and Mohamed Salah, Arsenal’s goals are more evenly distributed among players. Kai Havertz has four goals, while Saka has three, and Gabriel, Trossard, and Gabriel Martinelli each have two.
Still, the club may pursue a forward if a suitable opportunity arises.
In the summer transfer window, Arsenal was linked with RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko and Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak, but both players remained with their teams. Ironically, Isak scored a stunning header against Arsenal on Saturday after receiving a precise cross from Anthony Gordon.
The 25-year-old Isak is under contract with Newcastle until 2028, though reports from Football Insider suggest he has concerns about the club’s direction.
Additionally, Isak’s representatives are discussing a potential new contract with the club.
The former Real Sociedad forward has struggled with injuries this season, managing only two goals in eight appearances, but he aims to replicate last season’s success when he netted 21 Premier League goals.
In July 2024, Isak commented on his situation, expressing that he was “happy” at Newcastle.
“I had my best season of my career [in 2023-24],” he told Swedish outlet Fotbollskanalen. “You can’t underestimate that. I love everything about the club, the fans, and the city.”
He added, “I’m not thinking about moving or anything like that. I’m enjoying my time here and am very happy with my life.”
Isak clarified, “A transfer isn’t something I dwell on. There’s been no talk or drama about it within the team or the club. I haven’t received any indication from the club that they need to sell me.”
