Alexander Isak insists he has no concerns over his Newcastle United future amid lingering transfer interest from Arsenal.
The Sweden international netted 25 goals in 40 appearances last season, emerging as an early summer transfer target for the Gunners.
Arsenal reportedly approached Newcastle over a possible move but were told under no uncertain terms he was not for sale.
The 25-year-old has established himself as one of Europe’s most sought-after strikers since arriving at St James’ Park in the summer of 2022. He has a contract at St James’ Park until 2028 but talks have taken place over an improved deal for the striker.
Eddie Howe suggested last month the situation was ‘not clear-cut’, not convinced there were any issues with his current contract.
Reports this week have claimed there has been a ‘breakdown’ between the two parties over a new deal. But Isak insisted there have never been ‘any problems’ at Newcastle with his focus fully on the current Premier League campaign.
‘Throughout my career, I have never talked about or really commented on the move rumours during the season,’ Isak told fotbollskanalen. ‘There have been many such years where it has been talked about. It doesn’t affect me, says Isak.
‘I am commenting on my situation in Newcastle and I have never had any problem there. I am fully focused on my task there and that we will have a fantastic season. There are still great opportunities for that. I have no thoughts about anything else.
But asked specifically if there is an ongoing dialogue with Newcastle over a new deal, Isak replied: ‘No comment’.
Arsenal have again lacked a recognised no9 this season with Kai Havertz’s form dipping in recent weeks.
Isak was on target again against Nottingham Forest prior to the international break with former Arsenal star Paul Merson convinced his old side should have ‘broken the bank’ for the Swede.
‘I think he was the missing link for Arsenal,’ Merson told Sky Sports. ‘I think he can do everything, he can come short, he gets in the box, he can spread the game.
‘That’s what Arsenal need, you need to spread the game so you can get players like Odegaard and Saka on the ball.
‘At the moment Arsenal are a bit congested, they haven’t got a player like Isak. I’m a fan, I’m a really big fan. I thought his header against Arsenal was outstanding. Big fan.’
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