According to reports, there is “ongoing tension” between Arsenal and Newcastle United behind the scenes. This relates to the Gunners’ executives taking issue with state-owned clubs.
Per Miguel Delaney of the Independent, Mikel Arteta has his eye on Alexander Isak but a deal is unlikely for multiple reasons.
“Ongoing tension” Between Arsenal and Newcastle
May stop Alexander Isak transfer
Arsenal are well understood to be in the market for a striker if the right opportunity comes along. Benjamin Sesko of RB Leipzig was a strong target before Euro 2024 began, but on the eve of the tournament, the Slovenian forward opted to stay put, signing a new contract.
As journalist Delaney revealed, there has been an “ongoing tension between the St James’ Park hierarchy and Arsenal, due to the latter’s attitude to state-owned clubs”. He continued:
“Some executives at Arsenal have been at the forefront of moves within the Premier League to restrict the potential financial power of Abu Dhabi-owned Manchester City and Saudi Arabian-owned Newcastle.”
As such, there are now “colder relationships at boardroom level” between the two Premier League outfits. This is not ideal for the Gunners, who also have an interest in midfielder Bruno Guimaraes – another player Newcastle are intent on keeping.
Arsenal’s top target may well have been Isak but they do not want to get into a long-running saga. Having weighed up all the potential pitfalls of attempting to get this deal done, the club now appear to be exploring other options.
