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Barcelona have joined Arsenal in the race to sign Premier League striker Alexander Isak, who plays for Newcastle United.
Isak, who hails from Sweden, began his career with AIK, before making the switch to Borussia Dortmund in 2017. After impressing in Germany, he made the move to Real Sociedad, where he spent three years, putting his performances in the eyes of bigger European clubs.
In 2022, he moved to Newcastle United, where he has continued to impress, racking up a remarkable goal tally of 31 goals in 61 games for the Magpies. Now, it seems like another move is on the cards for the 24-year-old striker, as Newcastle are looking to balance their Financial Fair Play situation.
They are currently facing a summer of potential sales, in order to keep their books in order, and it is believed that they are not averse to selling Alexander Isak. The striker has already been in the crosshairs of North London giants Arsenal, and it looks as though the Gunners may make their move for him this summer.
However, Mikel Arteta may now need to be concerned about Barcelona, as the Catalan giants have reportedly joined the race to sign Isak. According to The Sun, the Spanish side have had their eyes on the 24-year-old striker "since Christmas" and they view him as the player to "lead their line for the next three or four years".
Isak is reportedly said to be valued at £90 million, which could well be out of Barca's ability, especially if they are unable to make enough sales this summer. They will also need to be wary about the Gunners, who could make their move imminently.
Former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger believes Xavi Hernandez announced Barcelona exit too early
If Alexander Isak moves to Camp Nou, instead of Arsenal, he would not play under Xavi Hernandez, who has notably helped to right the struggling Catalan ship. The manager decided he would leave Camp Nou at the end of the season, revealing as much to the press in January.
However, former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger does not think the revelation came about at the right time. Speaking to SPORT, the Gunners legend said (via Barca Universal):
“I think Xavi has done a very good job at Barcelona. In my opinion, he announced his departure too soon. When you think about the age of their players, they can only get stronger; that’s why I think I would have liked Xavi to stay."
Xavi has led Barcelona to the quarterfinals of the UEFA Champions League, while they sit in second place on the La Liga table. While many are hoping he might change his mind and stay, the former midfielder has reiterated his decision to leave.
