Arsenal and Liverpool on Alert as Newcastle Plan for Potential Isak Exit

Newcastle have compiled a shortlist of top strikers amid growing interest in Alexander Isak, but they remain adamant about keeping the Swedish forward.

Since arriving from Real Sociedad in the summer of 2022, Isak, 25, has established himself as one of the Premier League’s most prolific No.9s. This season, only Mohamed Salah and Erling Haaland have outscored him in the league.

Arsenal have long been linked with the in-form striker as they search for an elite frontman, while Liverpool have also emerged as potential suitors amid speculation they may seek an upgrade on Darwin Nunez, who has struggled for consistency in front of goal.

Despite the growing interest, Newcastle remain firm in their stance: they have no intention of selling Isak and plan to open contract talks with him at the end of the season.

However, the club has prepared contingency plans. According to The Mail, Newcastle have been tracking several strikers who would only become targets if Isak were to depart, with RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko among those being monitored. Sesko is also on Arsenal’s radar as they prepare to invest in a new No.9 this summer after opting against a move in January.

• Arsenal vs PSG Prediction, Odds & Betting Tips 04/29/2025
• Liverpool vs Tottenham Prediction, Odds & Betting Tips 04/27/2025

In addition to Sesko, Newcastle have been keeping tabs on Jonathan David and Liam Delap, who has impressed during his loan spell with Ipswich Town in the Premier League this season.

Delap is set to attract significant interest this summer after netting 10 league goals for Ipswich Town. The young striker, who came through Manchester City's academy before making the move to Suffolk, has already caught the attention of Manchester United and Chelsea.

Meanwhile, Newcastle remain firm in their stance on Alexander Isak. Club chief executive Darren Eales reaffirmed earlier this week that there is no pressure to sell the Swedish forward or any of their key players, all of whom are tied to long-term contracts.

“The reality is that all of our players are under long-term deals,” Eales told The i Paper. “They’re committed to the club. So, from that perspective, we’re not looking to move any player on. We’ve got that wish and desire to keep our key players, and we’re not under the gun to sell or anything like that.

“We have ambitious ownership that wants the best for the club. So from that perspective, it’d be crazy for us to consider it.”