Arsenal has identified a Newcastle player as their ultimate target, while Eddie Howe is considering two possible replacements…

Arsenal has marked a Newcastle player as their coveted target, as Eddie Howe evaluates two potential replacements.

Arsenal has set its sights on Newcastle’s Alexander Isak as their primary target for a new striker, according to sources close to TEAMtalk.

Mikel Arteta has expressed to the club’s management his desire for a prolific forward to enhance their title challenge against Manchester City and other competitors in the Premier League.

The Gunners have compiled a list of elite centre-forwards, but insiders assert that Isak is the preferred choice they aim to persuade to join soon.

Arsenal views Isak as the ideal candidate who meets all their requirements, dubbing him their ‘dream target.’

Currently, Isak is contracted with Newcastle until 2028, giving the club a strong position in negotiations.

Nevertheless, sources indicate that a transfer to Arsenal is not out of the question, albeit challenging.

Isak is reportedly interested in joining a club that consistently competes for trophies and secures Champions League qualification.

The forward has expressed concerns regarding Newcastle’s pace of progress, especially after the team fell short of a top-four finish last season.

With Newcastle currently just outside the Champions League spots, the outcome of their season will significantly influence Isak’s decision.

Newcastle is determined to retain Isak, even if he expresses a desire to leave, and it would require a fee exceeding £100 million to entice him away from St James’ Park.

Manager Eddie Howe is unlikely to approve a sale in January, regardless of the offer’s size.

In light of Isak’s situation and Callum Wilson’s injury issues, Newcastle is actively seeking to bolster their attacking options.

Newcastle United is exploring various options, including the possibility of signing Everton forward Dominic Calvert-Lewin.

The England international’s contract is set to expire at the end of the season, making the prospect of acquiring him on a free transfer appealing to Newcastle, who must remain mindful of the Premier League’s profit and sustainability regulations.

Calvert-Lewin would find a move to Newcastle attractive; however, there is a chance he may opt to renew his contract with Everton following The Friedkin Group’s takeover at Goodison Park.

Additionally, Newcastle has expressed interest in Lille striker Jonathan David, who is also facing the end of his contract this season.

He will be eligible to engage in pre-contract discussions with clubs outside of France in January, paving the way for a potential free transfer next summer, and Newcastle is anticipated to be a contender for his signature.

In other developments, Real Madrid continues to pursue Arsenal defender William Saliba, prompting the Gunners to adopt a firm stance regarding his potential departure.

The 23-year-old has transformed from a player many believed would not receive an opportunity at Arsenal to a key figure in the starting lineup.

Saliba and his defensive partner Gabriel have established a solid partnership, and his impressive performances have garnered attention.

Reports indicate that Arsenal is likely to prevent Saliba’s exit, as Real Madrid remains interested.

The centre-back is viewed as an essential component of Mikel Arteta’s future plans, and the club is determined to retain him under all circumstances.

With his contract running until 2027, Arsenal is in a strong negotiating position and is actively working to extend his contract to further solidify their stance.

In related news, sources from Spain suggest that Arsenal is contemplating a significant bid for Barcelona winger Raphinha.

Since departing Leeds United in 2022, Raphinha has been frequently associated with a return to England ahead of nearly every transfer window.

Several prominent clubs appear to recognize his abilities as a valuable addition to their squads.

Reports indicate that Arsenal is prepared to submit an offer of €90 million (£75 million/$95 million) for the Brazilian winger.

Nevertheless, it is claimed that Barcelona is unwilling to let Raphinha go for anything less than €100 million (£84 million/$106 million).