Arsenal talks cited as Newcastle United line up replacement for Alexander Isak: report

Isak, currently ranked at no.6 in FourFourTwo's list of the best strikers in the world, has reportedly caught the eye of Arsenal. The talented Sweden international has already netted four goals in ten appearances this season, making him a highly sought-after player in the transfer market.

The Magpies beat Arsenal 1-0 at St James' Park on Saturday, with the 25-year-old scoring the only goal of the game. The Gunners' quest for Premier League glory may come at a price, however, if they are to push forward with a move for the former Real Sociedad man.

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According to information relayed by teamTALK, Newcastle and Eddie Howe know they may lose Isak next summer should a reasonable offer arrive for the in-form centre forward.

Players of his calibre are rare to find in the modern game with it suggested that Arsenal, Barcelona and Inter Milan are all showing interest in Isak. Newcastle may also have to sell given their precarious position when it comes to the Premier League's Profit and Sustainability Rulings (PSR).

Isak has now played in the Champions League for Newcastle but wants to do so on a more consistent basis given his age. A move elsewhere might allow him to do just that and he has kept relatively coy on his current situation in the north-east.

“Of course I want to be here at Newcastle in the future!” he said back in April. “I came here for the project, I absolutely love playing here, I really feel at home. I want to finish this season in a good way. I love playing here."

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Newcastle failed in their drawn-out pursuit of Marc Guehi in the summer, but are expected to head back into the transfer market in January, with a centre-back and a right winger remaining a priority.

Sales for Isak and fellow star Bruno Guimaraes have been touted, but would somewhat squander Newcastle's plans to continue in their quest for a top-four place in the Premier League this season.

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In FourFourTwo's view, losing Isak would be detrimental to their quest to break the 'top six' mould, especially if a sale to Arsenal was agreed. It would make sense for Mikel Arteta to go after a player of Isak's quality, given his record in England since his move from Spain.

Newcastle United return to Premier League action this weekend against Nottingham Forest, bidding to build on their recent success against the Gunners.