Chelsea have been handed a potential boost in their reported pursuit of signing Newcastle striker Alexander Isak at the expense of Premier League rivals Arsenal.The Blues were credited with an interest in signing Isak during the summer transfer window but opted against bringing the Sweden international to Stamford Bridge.Isak was also heavily linked with a move to Arsenal in the summer as Mikel Arteta’s side were widely tipped to sign a striker, but the end result was that the 25-year-old remained at Newcastle.
Now, though, an update has emerged over Isak’s future at St James’ Park that could provide optimism for Chelsea.
According to the Daily Mail, there is a chance that Isak could leave Newcastle next summer with a decision expected over his future on Tyneside.The report claims that Isak did not sign a new contract with Newcastle in the summer due to potential doubts over the long-term project at St James’ Park.It has been reported that Isak has a desire to play Champions League football, which could see the striker seeking a move away from Newcastle if the club do not qualify for the competition next season. Isak is contracted at Newcastle under 2028, and it does not seem likely that an agreement will be reached over a new contract, with the suggestion being that the striker could seek a move away from the Magpies at the end of the campaign.
Chelsea and Arsenal are currently battling to achieve a top four finish in the Premier League this season, although the Gunners also have ambitions of winning the title. The Blues are currently fourth in the table ahead of fifth-placed Arsenal who are behind on goal difference after the first 10 matches of the season – perhaps putting the Blues at the front of the queue for Isak as well.
There is , of course, plenty of the season left to go. But Arsenal will know the reality is that they must get back in the top four not only to qualify for next season’s Champions League, but to stand any chance of signing Isak too.