Alexander Isak has reportedly made it clear what it will take for him to stay at Newcastle after his latest goalscoring display. The Swedish striker headed in his 13th goal of the season in the 2-0 win at Manchester United on Monday, again showcasing why he’s been linked to a host of big clubs.
The 25-year-old now has 42 goals in just 68 Premier League appearances, and has already struck against the likes of Arsenal and Liverpool FC this season.
And it’s those two clubs who have been strongly touted to bid for the forward next summer, despite his current deal at Newcastle running until June 2028.
According to The Sun, Isak is prepared to turn down a potential move away from St James’ Park on one condition. He is said to be desperate to be back playing in the Champions League, and has told club bosses he will stay if the side secures a top-four finish.
After a run of four straight Premier League wins, Eddie Howe’s wide are now in contention at the top end of the table in fifth place. That leaves them just three points off Chelsea above them, having missed out on European football for the 2024/25 season.
The club are also in the League Cup semi-finals after beating Brentford earlier this month. They’ll now play Arsenal over two legs as Howe looks to lead the club to a first major trophy since they won the FA Cup in 1955.
Arsenal have been linked to a series of big-name strikers in the past two seasons, with Mikel Arteta’s side still plagued by the perception that they lack the clinical ability to win the Premier League or Champions League. Bukayo Saka’s injury has also ramped up the scrutiny on the Gunners going forward as they fight to keep pace with leaders Liverpool.
The Reds meanwhile, could well need a long-term replacement for Mohammed Salah with no sign of a breakthrough in his contract negotiations. After scoring in the 5-0 demolition of West Ham on Sunday, the Egyptian admitted both parties were “far away” from an agreement.
Isak is also said to be being tracked by overseas giants like Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona and Real Madrid. But Newcastle are unlikely to budge on their reported valuation of £150million, which seemingly scuppered potential buyers last summer.
After the win at Old Trafford, Isak insisted he was unaffected by the speculation over his future. “No, it doesn’t really faze me too much. I think that’s more for you guys and for fans to talk about,” he said.
“I’m in the middle of the season and I think it’s going really well for me and the team, so, you know, all my focus is here. ‘I’m really happy with how things are going. My focus is on the pitch.”
