Arsenal get Alexander Isak transfer update as Newcastle 'forced' to do business

Isak is currently contracted at St James’ Park until 2028, although has reportedly told club bosses he wants the club to secure Champions League football next season if he is to stay. And according to renowned football scout Mick Brown, the club will instead look to raise funds with sales elsewhere in order to comply with Financial Fair Play regulations.

“They’re being forced to sell fringe players because of these financial issues,” the former Man Utd and Sunderland man told Football Insider. “They’ve got a lot of players like Almiron and Harvey Barnes who haven’t sealed a first-team place, but are decent players for rotation.

“Under normal circumstances, if there were no other issues, that wouldn’t bother Newcastle. They’d be happy to keep them as fringe players who can come into the side as and when needed, but it isn’t like that at the moment. They’re being forced to sell fringe players because of these financial issues.”

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Eddie Howe could be forced to sell players this month. 

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And Jones cited Isak, along with Bruno Guimaraes, as two players the club are desperate to keep. “Newcastle don’t want to sell their star players, they want to keep their team as strong as possible,” he added.

Barnes in particular has played an important role this season, despite failing to nail down a regular place in the starting XI. He’s made 24 appearances in all competitions, scoring five times.