Arsenal and Barcelona are reportedly vying for the signature of 21-year-old Real Sociedad forward Alexander Isak this summer.
According to a report by Spanish outlet Fichajes, a three-way battle seems to be setting up for the services of Alexander Isak in the summer transfer window. Arsenal and Barcelona are among the clubs keen on signing the 21-year-old Swedish forward, who is also being tailed by AS Roma.
Alexander Isak has, for years, been billed as the next big thing to have emerged from Sweden, with comparisons naturally being drawn with Zlatan Ibrahimovic. The 21-year-old, though, has had to deal with a few setbacks after breaking through at AIK, as he struggled to nail down a spot at Borussia Dortmund before joining Real Sociedad in the summer of 2019.
It is the move to La Liga which has put his career back on track, with Isak growing in stature over the last couple of years. 2020/21, in particular, was a memorable campaign for the 21-year-old, who had 17 goals and 2 assists in 34 La Liga appearances. His progress has duly been noted as well, with Barcelona and Arsenal keen on signing him.
Barcelona have already bolstered their attack by signing Sergio Aguero on a free transfer. However, it is important to note that the veteran Argentine striker is on the wrong side of 30 and has a questionable fitness record in recent times. With Martin Braithwaite likely to be a bit-part player, it might not be the worst move to sign another striker.
To that end, Barcelona have been linked with Isak over a possible summer move, with the 21-year-old being a cheaper alternative to some of the marquee targets. On the other hand, Arsenal are in a period of transition amid a lot of uncertainty surrounding the futures of Alexandre Lacazette, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Eddie Nketiah.
Widespread reports suggest that Lacazette and Nketiah are expected to depart the Emirates in the summer transfer window. However, the fact that Aubameyang has his future up in the air means Arsenal do need to sign at least one striker, which explains the interest in Isak.
Apart from Barcelona and Arsenal, AS Roma are also vying for the 21-year-old’s signature, but Real Sociedad are hopeful of keeping hold of the young forward. However, if Isak does leave La Real, Barcelona could fancy their chances considering they can offer Champions League football. An intriguing summer beckons for the Swede and his suitors.
