Newcastle identify Alexander Isak transfer back-up plan – but face competition from Arsenal

Newcastle are prepared for bids for Alexander Isak with the Swede attracting a lot of attention and, as a result, have had to source possible replacements for the forward

Newcastle have made contingency plans should they lose Alexander Isak with Justin Kluivert identified as a replacement.

The Swedish striker has enjoyed his best season to date and is in a battle for the Golden Boot with a number of Europe’s top sides tracking the player. Isak is poised to be the subject of summer interest from some of the Premier League’s elite as well as overseas clubs.

Newcastle have, so far, been able to retain their top talent but their resolve may be tested should they receive a mammoth bid for Isak. As a result, they’ve considered who they could go after instead with Bournemouth’s frontman on their radar.

The Sun reports that the Magpies have watched the Cherries winger’s last five games closely. Arsenal though also been monitoring Kluivert, who has enjoyed a stellar season thus far with 11 goals this season – including a hat-trick against Newcastle themselves.

Isak, who has notched 17 goals already this season, is likely to remain at Newcastle if they can secure another year in the Champions League. Arsenal are among those heavily linked with a move for the Swede whilst also keeping tabs on Kluivert.

Howe has previously maintained that the player has no ambition to leave and is central to their plans to win a trophy, which he could yet do this season. He said: “There’s no part of me or anyone at Newcastle that wants to let Alex go. He’s very much part of our long-term plans. He’s first class.

“He’s motivated and wants to do well. He has big aspirations with his career but he’s still relatively young. His desire to score goals is second to none and regarding his future, everything has been positive. I would love for him to contribute to us winning a trophy.”

Isak, who was among the first marquee signings made by the Saudi ownership, has not expressed a desire to leave despite some of the clubs being linked with his services. The player himself has laughed off speculation as the Magpies look to retain the likes of Isak and Anthony Gordon.

He told the BBC : “This is something you get used to. Sometimes you see things that make you laugh or are not right. But it’s just part of football and it shouldn’t bother you too much.”

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