Newcastle chairman Yasir Al-Rumayyan has reportedly told the club’s hierarchy to refrain from selling star striker Alexander Isak this summer. The Swede, who has interest from Arsenal and other European heavyweights, was crucial to the Magpies beating Liverpool in the Carabao Cup final on Sunday.
Isak struck the second goal in the 2-1 triumph, which landed Newcastle their first major trophy in 70 years. It was the latest goal of an excellent campaign for the 25-year-old, who is almost certain to attract strong interest during the summer transfer window. Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta is known to be a huge admirer but Newcastle’s unwillingness to sell could strike a major blow to the north Londoners.
The Daily Mail reports that Al-Rumayyan – who is governor of the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) – has urged his fellow members of the Newcastle hierarchy to turn down any offers for Isak. The No. 14 is Al-Rumayyan’s favourite player and the 55-year-old holds him in a higher regard than any other Magpies star.
Isak’s goal against Liverpool was his 23rd of the season in all competitions. He is on course to comfortably outscore the impressive tally of 25 he managed last term and is reportedly being watched by Europe’s biggest clubs.
The report adds that Barcelona watched Isak in Newcastle’s 1-0 win over West Ham last weekend. Despite their well-documented financial issues, the Spanish giants reportedly want a marquee signing ahead of their return to Camp Nou next season.
Newcastle are said to be refusing to put a price tag on Isak as PIF and other key decision-makers do not want to sell the former Real Sociedad forward. He still has three years remaining on his contract and discussions over an extension are set to be held at the end of the season.
Eddie Howe’s side qualifying for next season’s Champions League could be crucial to them sealing a new deal for Isak. Playing in Europe’s elite competition again would provide the budget for a bumper pay rise and help Newcastle match Isak’s ambitions.
Sunday’s success guaranteed Newcastle a place in the play-off round of next season’s Conference League, regardless of where they finish in the Premier League. They are currently sixth in the top flight but are only two points off fourth-placed Chelsea in a hugely congested fight for Europe.
Newcastle played in the Champions League in 2023-24 but were eliminated in the group stages.
Content Source: www.express.co.uk