Chris Waddle sends clear Alexander Isak Newcastle United transfer plea amid Arsenal interest
Chris Waddle has urged Newcastle United to resist any transfer interest in Alexander Isak this January window as he continues to remain one of the hottest properties in European football.
Arsenal have been long-term admirers of the Sweden striker and they have continued to be heavily linked with a move in recent months. Despite a quiet day at the office against Bournemouth last time out, Isak quickly returned to the score-sheet, scoring two of Newcastle's three goals in the 3-1 win over Southampton on Saturday.
He now has 19 goals and five assists in 25 games in all competitions this term. While there is speculation over his future, it's understood that United chiefs remain 'relaxed' about his contract situation and The Telegraph suggest Newcastle intend to reward him with a new long-term deal at the end of the season.
READ MORE: Pep Guardiola's 'thinking' could be good news for Newcastle United
READ MORE: Paul Mitchell sent Bryan Mbeumo Newcastle United transfer message as James McAtee move urged
Chronicle Live also understands that Eddie Howe has been assured the Sweden striker is going nowhere despite his fine form and suggestion of a hefty £150million price tag. Their most-recent enquiry for Isak came last summer when Chelsea approached the club to enquiry about his price.
It would take an 'astronomical' fee for the club to even think about selling Isak, while very few could even afford him. However, should a sensational offer come in for Isak, Waddle has warned his future is dependent on him but has warned his former club that it will be difficult to replace Isak.
"I think that it's down to Alexander Isak," Waddle told My Betting Sites. "I don't think Newcastle want him to leave. [It's] Very hard to find a centre-forward who's an all-round centre-forward.
"He's got pace, can score goals, can head the ball well, he's got two great feet, he can beat people. He's got all the attributes for a modern day centre-forward. I think for Newcastle to lose him, yes they could get a lot of money for him - and a massive deal for him - but these forwards are hard to find.
"Everybody's looking for a centre-forward. He had a very quiet game against Bournemouth last Saturday, which is probably the worst game he's had. Whether he's tired or the transfer talk is getting to him a bit but, for Newcastle, if they've got any ambition, they've got to keep a hold of him. He's a top, top player."