Arsenal have been dealt a slight blow to their hopes of signing Alexander Isak. The 25-year-old striker has been heavily linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium for a while now as he continues to impress for Newcastle United.

Since returning from a broken toe injury in October, Isak has featured 16 times in the Premier League, scoring 16 goals and providing four assists. Playing a key role in Eddie Howe's side, the Sweden international has helped the Magpies climb above to fifth in the table.

Isak's impressive performances haven't gone under the radar and, with Mikel Arteta looking to strengthen his frontline, he's been mooted as a potential target. However, the Swede could soon be ruled out as an option as Eddie Howe looks to tie him down to a long-term contract.

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According to The Telegraph, Newcastle want to reward Isak with a bumper new deal in the summer, and they remain adamant he's 'not for sale at any price'. The report claims that the Gunners don't have the money to tempt the Magpies into talks anyway.

So, if Arsenal want to finally secure his signature, the club will need to raise significant funds or seek a cash injection from Josh Kroenke – and that's assuming Isak wants to leave St. James' Park. Just earlier this month, the Swede claimed it's 'extra special' to play for a club like Newcastle.

In an interview with Prime Video Sverige, as quoted by Chronicle Live, he said: "Playing football at this level has always been a dream and probably the main dream that I've had. Playing in the Premier League for a club like Newcastle with a fan base like they have here is extra special."

Speaking to Swedish publication Fotbal Skanalen in November, as quoted by 90min, Isak, who sees his contract in Tyneside run until at least June 2028, claimed he has not thought about leaving. He said: "Throughout my career, I have never talked about or really commented on the move rumours during the season.

"There have been many such years where it has been talked about. It doesn't affect me. 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," Isak added. "The only thing I can say is that a lot of information and rumours often come out. Much of what I read is not true. So that’s about all I can say about the whole thing."

Howe has previously revealed that he's 'desperate' for Isak to stay despite pressure to comply with the Premier League's strict Profit and Sustainability rules. He boss said: "I think with Alex he's got a long contract anyway and we have to be really careful regarding our spending due to PSR.

"It's not a clearcut situation. Every decision we make as a football club has a knock-on effect. We, of course, love Alex and are desperate for him to stay at Newcastle for many years and score loads of goals for us, but I don't see a short-term issue with his contract.

"At this moment in time, Alex just needs to focus on his football. Whether that is him saying, 'I'm fine. I've got four years left on my contract, I'm happy at the club and I just want to play my best football'. That is the ideal world.

"But, of course, nothing in football is straightforward, so I'm sure there will be ongoing discussions between Alex, his representatives and the club. Alex can only help his situation by playing well."