With the summer transfer window officially opening last Friday, Newcastle United will be hoping to keep their highly-rated talent at the club while also seeking to add new players. Under Eddie Howe's management, the Magpies have seen impressive finishes, securing fourth place in his first full season and seventh place last season. This success has been largely due to the goals of Alexander Isak.
In his debut season, following a £63 million transfer from Real Sociedad, Isak scored 11 goals in 29 appearances. He improved significantly in the 2023/24 season, netting 25 goals in 40 matches. With such proven ability, it's no surprise that top clubs like Arsenal have shown interest in the Swedish striker. To deter suitors, Newcastle has reportedly placed a £200 million price tag on the 24-year-old.
Newcastle United aim to keep Alexander Isak amid summer transfer window activity
Arsenal's search for a new striker has seen them linked with other forwards as well, which could help secure Isak's future at Newcastle. Mikel Arteta's interest in strikers includes names like Ivan Toney, who has excelled with Brentford. Toney scored 21 goals and provided five assists in the 2022/23 season, marking his best performance in the Premier League.
Initially, Toney had a reported £80 million fee attached to his name. However, with one year remaining on his contract, talkSPORT now claims Brentford has reduced his price to £60 million. Toney's participation in Euro 2024 as a backup to Harry Kane could further solidify his value. His lower cost might shift Arsenal's focus away from Isak, allowing Newcastle to prepare for the new Premier League season with more certainty.
Toney has acknowledged the transfer speculation but remains focused on his current commitments. "I'm a Brentford player, I have a year left. I'm going into a major tournament and that's my main focus now," he said. He added, "It's nice to be linked with other clubs, but I've had disappointments in the past and nothing's done until it's done. If a big move was to come, then I'd be ready regardless. But like I said, I've got to remain focused and not let other things and other noise get the best of me and just focus on what I need to be doing."
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Newcastle United’s primary goal this summer is to retain their key players like Isak while also strengthening their squad. With the transfer window now open, fans will be eagerly watching to see how the team manages its talent and navigates the challenges of potential transfers. Eddie Howe and the club's management are set for a busy summer as they aim to build on their recent successes and prepare for the upcoming season.