Ian Wright claims that two Arsenal players have urged manager Mikel Arteta to acquire an ‘exciting’ Premier League star during the summer transfer window.
Arsenal legend Ian Wright has revealed that two of the club’s key players are urging manager Mikel Arteta to pursue the signing of Newcastle United’s prolific striker, Alexander Isak. Calling the Swedish forward “exciting,” Wright shared insights into why Isak could be a transformative addition to Arsenal’s attack, as they look to strengthen their squad and compete at the top of the Premier League.
The Gunners have faced challenges in their 2024/25 season, trailing league leaders Liverpool and struggling to find consistent goal-scoring form. Despite contributions from players like Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz, Arsenal appears to lack the clinical edge that comes with having a world-class No. 9. Wright’s revelation underscores the belief that Isak could be the solution to this problem.
Isak, 25, has enjoyed a stellar season with Newcastle United, scoring 20 goals in 28 Premier League appearances. His blend of speed, technical skill, and physical strength has made him one of the league’s most feared forwards. Wright highlighted how Isak’s versatility and ability to create chances were evident when Arsenal faced Newcastle earlier in the season.
Speaking on The Kelly and Wrighty Show, Wright revealed that Saliba and Gabriel, widely regarded as one of the Premier League’s best centre-back pairings, were left in awe after facing Isak earlier this season. “Watching [Isak] against Saliba and Gabriel was torture,” Wright said. “He gave them a torrid time because they didn’t know he could pick the ball up and run at them, he could back into them, and people can run off of him, and he can link the play, he can run beyond them and score.”
Wright added that the experience was so humbling that the two defenders likely told Arteta, “We’ve got to go and get that guy.” The former Arsenal striker emphasized Isak’s versatility, noting, “When you’ve got someone like him, he can do everything. He’s not needing anyone in particular to play off him.” Isak’s ability to score headers, link play, and thrive with quality service from midfielders and wingers makes him an ideal fit for Arteta’s system.
Isak’s performances against Arsenal this season have only fueled speculation about a potential move. Newcastle defeated Arsenal three times in 2024/25, once in the Premier League and twice in the Carabao Cup semi-finals, with Isak scoring in two of those games. His 20 Premier League goals place him among the league’s top scorers, and at just 25, he’s entering his prime, making him an attractive long-term investment for any top club.
However, prising Isak away from Newcastle won’t be easy. The Magpies, sitting comfortably in the top six, view him as a cornerstone of their project under Eddie Howe. With his contract running until June 2028, Newcastle are under no pressure to sell, and any deal would likely command a fee well in excess of £100 million. Wright himself acknowledged the challenge, previously stating on The Overlap with Sky Bet that he’d be “devastated” if Arsenal missed out on Isak, especially to a rival like Liverpool.
Mikel Arteta has been methodical in his approach to recruitment, prioritizing players who fit his tactical vision and can elevate Arsenal’s competitiveness. Recent signings like Riccardo Calafiori and Mikel Merino have added depth and quality, but the lack of a reliable goalscorer remains a glaring issue. Wright has been vocal about Arsenal’s need for a striker who can “change games,” and Isak’s profile, versatility, and Premier League experience fit the bill.
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