Arsenal’s pursuit of a top-tier striker has been a topic of discussion throughout the 2024 season, with fans and analysts alike noting the Gunners’ need for a lethal number nine. Despite exploring options during the summer transfer window, Arsenal ultimately opted not to bring in a new forward, relying on the current squad to deliver the goals needed. However, Gunners journalist Charles Watts believes that one player in particular could be the perfect solution for Mikel Arteta’s squad—Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak.
Isak’s name has been linked to Arsenal in previous discussions, but no formal approach was ever made. Watts argues that Isak embodies everything Arsenal should be looking for in a striker: a combination of agility, skill, and finishing prowess that would make him a standout fit in Arteta’s style of play. The Swedish international has been a pivotal figure for Newcastle, showing his ability to influence games with his clinical finishing and technical flair, which would add a new dimension to Arsenal’s attacking lineup.
Arteta has reportedly been monitoring the striker market closely, aware that Arsenal lacks a conventional number nine with the instinct and composure of a dedicated forward. Kai Havertz has performed admirably in a forward role, contributing both goals and assists, yet he is seen more as a versatile playmaker rather than a pure striker. Watts believes that, while Havertz and other players in Arsenal’s lineup bring creative qualities, Isak could be the true finisher the team has been missing.
One of the primary options Arsenal had been linked to was Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres, who had an outstanding season in Portugal, scoring 43 goals in just 50 games. Despite interest in Gyokeres, Arsenal decided against signing him, keeping the door open for another potential striker search next season. With Newcastle’s recent struggles to secure a long-term contract for Isak, Watts sees a potential opportunity for Arsenal to explore.
In a recent column for CaughtOffside, Watts expressed his admiration for Isak’s talents, describing him as the “perfect” fit for the Gunners if the club were to pursue a forward in the upcoming summer transfer window. “I’ve always said that Alexander Isak is perfect for Arsenal. He would be at the top of my list of new forwards if he were to become available,” Watts explained. The journalist emphasized that Isak’s skillset aligns well with the Gunners’ ambitions and could fill the void of a traditional striker that Arsenal has been missing for some time.
However, acquiring Isak would not be straightforward. The Swedish forward is currently under contract with Newcastle until 2028, placing the club in a strong position to retain him or demand a high transfer fee. Newcastle has consistently shown reluctance to entertain offers for Isak, as they view him as a crucial component of their project. Even with talks stalling over a new contract, a transfer would likely require an exceptional offer to alter Newcastle’s stance.
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe, known for his strong belief in Isak’s potential, is unlikely to let the striker go easily. Nonetheless, if Arsenal were willing to invest heavily, it could open the door to a move that would bring an elite goal scorer to the Emirates. According to Watts, the stalled contract discussions could potentially shift the situation, especially if Newcastle feels the player might be open to exploring new options.
“The issue is, however, that Isak’s current deal does not run out until 2028, so Newcastle are still in a very strong position,” Watts pointed out. “It would still take huge money to pry him away from St. James’ Park. Whether Arsenal could put that sort of money down for the striker, I have no idea at this point.”
For Arsenal supporters, the potential addition of Isak to Arteta’s team in 2025 is an enticing prospect. Not only would Isak bring the consistency and precision Arsenal needs up front, but his adaptability and tactical awareness would make him an ideal fit in Arteta’s evolving strategy.