Alexander Isak contract update as ‘likely’ Newcastle United transfer scenario emerges

Newcastle United are set to offer Alexander Isak a bumper new contract this summer, according to reports.

Toon chiefs splashed out a club-record £63million to sign the Swede from Real Sociedad less than two years ago. Just six La Liga goals the previous season raised eyebrows at the transfer fee but Isak has since developed into one of Europe’s deadliest strikers.

An impressive 29 goals in 48 games - with 19 coming this season - makes Isak the undisputed first-choice striker in Eddie Howe’s frontline. Throw in goals at Paris Saint-Germain and a brace against Sunderland and it becomes clear why the 24-year-old is a hit with supporters.

But that success has also triggered speculation regarding his St James’ Park future. Isak was keen to distance himself from the rumours when grilled earlier this month.

“Of course I want to be here in the future,” he said. “I came here for the project, I absolutely love playing here, I really feel at home. I want to finish this season in a good way for me and the team. I love playing here.”

Arsenal have been heavily linked with the striker as Mikel Arteta searches for the final piece of his puzzle up front. However, Isak has over four years left on his current deal and would not come cheap - with an extension pending.

The Telegraph claim Newcastle are “likely” to agree an improved contract in the coming weeks to keep potential suitors at bay. He would move alongside Bruno Guimaraes as the club’s top earner, with the Brazilian increasing his pay packet in October.

The Magpies are understood to have a clear “not for sale” stance regarding their talisman. This comes amid further speculation claiming Newcastle must sell to align with FFP/PSR regulations.