'Build a team around' - this Newcastle United player is 'unsellable' amid transfer link

Former Chelsea defender Jason Cundy has echoed Newcastle United supporters’ Alexander Isak comparisons with Thierry Henry.

Just one game into his Tyneside career, Toon fans were already drawing parallels with the Premier League great. Isak bamboozled Liverpool defenders in August 2022, scoring one and having another cruelly disallowed by VAR.

Isak has since become a top-flight force, bagging 25 goals in 44 league games since the record-breaking move. Netting five goals in his last five games has only amplified noises comparing him to Arsenal legend Henry.

His tall, gangly frame, combined with his guile, finesse and ruthless quality on the ball, as well as the ability to play up front and out wide, are what spawned the similarities. Isak also dons the No.14 shirt - made famous by his French predecessor.

Eddie Howe himself approved of the connection when grilled by reporters last year. He said: "Yes, I can, I can see the comparisons there. Everyone is different, there are no two players that are the same, but I do think he has some of the characteristics Thierry had.

"He's certainly got the speed and a similar build and frame. The footwork for the assist was truly remarkable, really, and I think he's got a lot of potential to improve and get better. But it's been a great start for him here."

Ex-Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur defender Cundy has now referenced the likeness between both players. However, the 54-year-old also fired a transfer warning to Newcastle ahead of the summer window.

“You have Isak right, this kid here, can you build a team around him - because he’s electric,” he told talkSPORT. “The goal he scored today reminds me of a young Thierry Henry. Cutting in from that left side and bending it towards the far corner.

“If they sell him, where do they go from there? Sell him for £100million, what’s an extra £40million going to do? You read that in the paper today and then you see him put that performance in. And then a Spurs or an Arsenal come in and dangle £100m, where do they go from there?”