Alexander Isak to Arsenal transfer stance emerges as FFP condition clear

Mikel Arteta has reportedly made Alexander Isak his priority attacking target for the summer transfer window.

The Gunners are expected to move for a player in this position, having been heavily linked with a deal for Ivan Toney in January, and are believed to have identified Isak as their standout candidate.

There is a "short list of names" behind the Swedish star on the Gunners' shortlist, should they fail in their efforts to recruit the 24-year-old, though Arsenal will first test Newcastle's resolve before exploring other options.

That is according to The Independent, who have claimed Arteta "sees plenty of value" in the Magpies' No.14, who has scored 19 Premier League goals this season in only 26 appearances.

Arsenal are reported to have a set price in mind for Isak and are not prepared to become involved in a lengthy transfer saga, involving both clubs going back and forth over a fee. Should this prove to be the case, the above report has suggested the Gunners will then reconsider their options.

Newcastle are said to be "strongly resistant" to selling their star forward and have plans to offer Isak a new contract. The current deal of the former Real Sociedad forward is set to expire in 2028, having only signed last summer.

READ MORE: Mikel Arteta's Arsenal selection headache vs Bournemouth that could determine Zinchenko future

READ MORE: Jurrien Timber decision made for Arsenal vs Bournemouth as Mikel Arteta faces line-up challenge

Challenges regarding complying with Profit and Sustainability regulations could prove to be a key factor in a potential deal, with Newcastle aware of the importance of not falling foul of financial rules. The Magpies' CEO Darren Eales admitted earlier this season the club may have to sell before they can buy, only adding to the idea the likes of Isak and Bruno Guimaraes could be sacrificed.

Commenting on the future of Isak at the start of April, Newcastle boss Eddie Howe told reporters: “You have to try to keep your best players. Whether you’re able to do that continually with the rules that are in place at the moment, that’s always unsure.

“I’m not in control of that, but from my perspective, to be the team that we want to be, we have to keep our best players and keep improving.”