AFC TRANSFER NEWS LIVE :David Ornstein reveals the striker Arsenal desperately wants to sign this summer

David Ornstein has revealed that Arsenal desperately want to sign Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak this summer

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has identified Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak as his primary target for the upcoming summer transfer window, according to journalist David Ornstein.

After failing to strengthen their attack in January, Arsenal are expected to pursue a marquee signing to bolster their frontline, with Isak reportedly sitting at the top of Arteta’s wishlist. The Swedish international is seen as an ideal fit for Arsenal’s system, but a potential deal remains complicated, as Newcastle are reluctant to part ways with their star forward.

The Magpies are keen to secure Isak’s long-term future, with his current contract running until June 2028. Newcastle are instead pushing for the 25-year-old to sign a new deal, further solidifying their stance against a potential summer exit.

Speaking on the Back Pages podcast, Ornstein confirmed Arsenal’s interest while acknowledging the challenges of striking a deal:”There’s no doubt that Isak is the player Mikel Arteta has at the top of his list if he were to sign a striker.”

Alexander Isak

“He’s seen as a perfect fit for Arsenal’s system, but Newcastle fans will hate hearing that, because they have him under contract for several years.”

“Isak is arguably one of the best strikers in world football right now, which is why Arteta has him as his top target. Whether Arsenal can sign Isak is uncertain, as Newcastle are determined to keep him and push for a new contract.”

Isak is enjoying a sensational Premier League campaign, having netted 17 goals and provided five assists in 22 league appearances so far. His recent form has been even more impressive, with 13 goals in his last 11 games, keeping Newcastle in the hunt for European qualification.

Arsenal were widely expected to sign a striker in January but ultimately chose to hold off on any major signings. Reports suggest that the Gunners were offered multiple opportunities, including a chance to sign AC Milan’s Alvaro Morata on loan, but they rejected the move.