Eddie Howe sets Alexander Isak Newcastle January transfer stance amid Arsenal striker hunt

Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe is confident Alexander Isak will remain at St James' Park, despite long-standing reported interest from Premier League rivals Arsenal.

The Gunners have been heavily linked with the Sweden international since his move to Newcastle from Real Sociedad in the summer of 2022. The 25-year-old once again proved his ruthlessness in front of goal on Saturday with a hat-trick in their 4-0 triumph over Ipswich Town in the Premier League.

Despite consistent rumours linking Isak with a move away from his current club, Howe is confident they will be able to fend off interest from the likes of Arsenal to keep Isak, who is currently under contract until the summer of 2028. “We absolutely want to keep Alex at the football club,” the Newcastle boss told the media after their win on Saturday.

“There’s no part of me, or anybody at Newcastle, that wants to let Alex go. He’s very much part of our long-term plans. Personally, I don’t see that being an issue.

"Every conversation I had about Newcastle concerning his future with him has been very positive. I would love for him, and other players, to be the man who contributes to us winning a trophy. That is the aim.”

Isak signed a six-year deal upon his arrival on Tyneside back in 2022, which means he still has four years remaining on his current terms. Although negotiations over a new deal are yet to be opened, Howe insists there is no pressing need to get a new contract over the line.

“I don’t think contract talks started,” the Newcastle boss concluded. “That is the issue. If you are going to say they stalled, how can they? They never started.

“He has a long contract. I am sure when the time comes it will be discussed by Alex's representatives and the football club. But I don't know too much more.”

Speaking recently on The Athletic FC podcast, journalist David Ornstein confirmed Arsenal have been admirers of Isak since his Sociedad days. He also revealed the Gunners would jump at the opportunity to sign the striker should an opportunity arise, but noted it would be an extremely expensive deal to get over the line.

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