Mikel Arteta prioritizes Premier League experience in hunt for a prolific striker.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is ramping up efforts to sign a prolific striker in the January transfer window, with Newcastle’s Alexander Isak emerging as the club’s top target. Arteta has been on the hunt for a reliable goal-scorer since the summer, believing it to be a crucial piece in Arsenal’s bid to dethrone Manchester City and claim the Premier League title.
While Arsenal considered moves for Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyökeres, RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Šeško, and Napoli’s Victor Osimhen, the club opted against splashing out €100 million-plus fees for any of them. Instead, Arteta and the Arsenal hierarchy are now focusing on Premier League-proven talent, placing Isak at the top of their wishlist, according to TeamTalk.
Newcastle’s Stance on Isak
Securing the Swedish striker, however, will not be straightforward. Isak, 25, is under contract at Newcastle until 2028, and the Magpies are expected to demand at least €120 million (£100 million) for their star forward. A January move is considered unlikely, but Arsenal could find hope in Isak’s reported desire to play Champions League football and compete for trophies—aspirations that align with Arsenal’s current trajectory.
Isak has shown glimpses of brilliance this season, scoring in three consecutive Premier League matches against Chelsea, Arsenal, and Nottingham Forest. However, his overall form has been less prolific compared to his Swedish international teammate Viktor Gyökeres.
Gyökeres’ Stunning Form vs. Premier League Experience
Gyökeres, now at Sporting CP, has been in scintillating form, scoring 23 goals in 18 games at the club level and contributing an additional nine goals in six matches for Sweden—a combined tally of 32 this season. His numbers even surpass Manchester City’s Erling Haaland, who has 22 goals in 22 games across all competitions.
Despite Gyökeres’ incredible form, Arteta appears to favor players with Premier League experience, making Isak a more attractive option even at a higher cost.
Whether Arsenal can pull off a deal for Isak in January remains to be seen, but the Gunners’ intent to bolster their attack signals their determination to compete at the highest level this season.
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