Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has identified Newcastle United star Alexander Isak as his number-one striker target for the summer transfer window.
The Gunners have been tipped to sign a marquee centre-forward this summer and have been linked with numerous names in recent weeks.
According to the Independent, Isak has now emerged as a top priority for Arteta, who is intent on buying the forward that will complete his Arsenal team.
However, it won’t be easy to prise him away. The Magpies are keen on keeping hold of the Swede despite their concerns about Profitability and Sustainability Rules.
Isak reportedly may have to push for a transfer away from St James’ Park.
Isak would be a perfect striker signing for Arsenal
The 24-year-old was on the Gunners’s radar during his time at Real Sociedad, but they did not make a formal approach to sign him.
He eventually joined the Magpies where he has established himself as one of the best strikers in the Premier League. He has registered 23 goals in 36 appearances this season.
The Swede has also impressed with his link-up play and dribbling from deeper attacking positions. These attributes would suit Arteta’s tactics.
He has had a fabulous campaign with the Magpies and could improve at Arsenal.
The Swede has a fantastic shot-to-goal conversion rate of 29 percent in the Premier League. With the better creative players at Arsenal, he could easily hit the 30-35 goal mark.
The big question is whether they can persuade the Magpies to part ways with him. The Tyneside outfit’s resolve could be tested this summer with an offer of at least £100 million.
Even then, they could lean towards keeping him if Bruno Guimaraes were to leave. The Brazilian has a £100m release clause in his contract and has been tipped to join a bigger club.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com.
