Arsenal’s new stance on move for Premier League star while contract talks ‘remain open’

Arsenal reportedly showed interest in acquiring a world-class striker from another Premier League team, and a fresh update has now emerged.

Mikel Arteta’s team has faced a challenging start to the season due to numerous injury setbacks, with captain Martin Odegaard sidelined since early September.

Adding to their troubles, red cards for Declan Rice, Leandro Trossard, and William Saliba have further reduced Arteta’s options in recent weeks, though the north London team has managed well under tough circumstances – they are currently third in the league, five points behind leaders Manchester City (prior to today’s game against Newcastle).

Despite their strong league position, a recurring critique of Arsenal has been their lack of a clinical edge in attack.

Unlike Manchester City and Liverpool, who feature prolific goal scorers like Erling Haaland and Mohamed Salah, Arsenal’s goals are spread across the team, with Kai Havertz (four goals), Saka (three), and Gabriel, Trossard, and Gabriel Martinelli (each with two goals) contributing.

However, they might still consider signing a forward if an ideal deal arises.

Arsenal was linked with players like RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko and Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak in the summer transfer window, but both players remain with their clubs. Ironically, Isak scored a remarkable header against Arsenal on Saturday, converting a precise cross from Anthony Gordon.

The 25-year-old Isak is contracted to Newcastle until 2028, though Football Insider reports he has concerns about the club’s future direction.

The report also notes that Isak’s representatives are in discussions with the club about a potential new deal.

The former Real Sociedad forward has struggled with injuries this season, scoring just twice in eight games, but he aims to replicate last season’s form, when he scored 21 Premier League goals.

In July 2024, Isak addressed his situation, stating he was “happy” at Newcastle.

“I had my best season of my career [in 2023-24],” Isak told Swedish outlet Fotbollskanalen.

“You can’t underestimate that. I love everything about the club, the fans, the city,” he said.

“I don’t really have any thoughts of moving [club] or anything like that. I’m having a great time, and I’m very happy with my life.

“It’s [a transfer] not something I speculate about. Within the team or the club, there has been no talk or drama around it. I have not received any information from the club that they would have to sell me.”