Newcastle United transfer boost as Arsenal ‘give up’ on 24-goal talisman - but there’s a catch

Arsenal have switched focus and are now plotting to sign RB Leipzig hitman Benjamin Sesko instead of Alexander Isak, according to reports.

Ironically, that deals a minor blow to Newcastle United as they have also been linked with the 20-year-old. But keeping Isak at St James’ Park outweighs the need for another striker.

The Swede has stunned Toon fans since becoming the club’s record signing less than two years ago. Another goal against Burnley at the weekend took his tally to 24 for the season, with 20 coming in the Premier League.

Alan Shearer in 2003-04 was the last Newcastle player to reach the magic 20-goal mark during a top-flight campaign. Isak’s form has fuelled transfer speculation but those suggestions were brushed off last month.

"It was a strange rumour, actually," Isak said when grilled about the rumours. "I don't remember who it came from, but there was no person trustworthy enough to say such a thing. So, that's not true.

"Of course, I want to be here in the future. 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."

Arsenal appear to have given up on Isak as reports suggest Sesko is their new No.1 target. The 6ft 5in forward has 12 Bundesliga goals this season and is understood to have a £42million release clause in his Leipzig contract. Mikel Arteta has fielded Kai Havertz as a makeshift striker for most of the campaign.