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Newcastle’s contract negotiations with Alexander Isak have reached an impasse, which has put Arsenal on red alert ahead of the January transfer window.
Isak, now in his third year at St James’ Park, has established himself as one of the most sought-after attacking players in Premier League football with 36 goals in 73 appearances for the Magpies.
The Sweden international missed a large part of last season through injury but still finished the campaign as Newcastle’s top scorer, netting 25 times for the Toon in all competitions.
Naturally, Isak’s eye-catching form in front of goal has earned him plenty of admirers, with a host of Europe’s top teams credited with an interest in the 25-year-old forward.
Both Arsenal and Tottenham were said to be lining up £100million bids for Isak in the summer, only for the striker to stay put for another season in the north east.
However, talks to secure Isak on a new contract have made little progress and talkSPORT suggest that ‘there is no obvious sign’ of Newcastle making a breakthrough.
The report adds that the standoff has alerted Arsenal, with Isak unwilling to consider an extension unless he is made Newcastle’s top earner. The Swede is also demanding a release clause in any new deal.
Isak’s current contract, which he signed upon his arrival at Newcastle from Real Sociedad, runs through to 2028.
It’s claimed Benjamin Sesko remains on Arsenal’s radar after the Gunners missed out on a deal for the 21-year-old RB Leipzig attacker in the summer transfer window.
The likes of Victor Osimhen, 25, Dusan Vlahovic, 24, and Viktor Gyokeres, 26, have also been linked with the north London giants in recent months.
Isak has refused to be drawn into the speculation surrounding his future and insisted he was ‘very happy’ at Newcastle back in June.
‘I’m enjoying myself very, very much in Newcastle,’ he told Swedish outlet Fotbollskanalen.
‘I just had the best season of my career. That should not be underestimated.
‘I love everything really about the club, the fans, the city.’
Isak added: ‘I actually have no thoughts of a move or anything like that.
‘I enjoy myself fantastically well and am very happy with my life.’
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