Arsenal have reportedly joined the race to sign Alexander Isak, with the Gunners ready to trigger the Real Sociedad forward’s €70 million release clause.
According to AS, Arsenal are ready to rival Real Madrid and Chelsea as the pursuit of Alexander Isak continues to take an interesting shape, following his impressive performances in UEFA Euro 2020.
The report suggests that Real Madrid are exploring the possibility of securing the services of the Real Sociedad forward. They have been convinced by the player’s progress and are considering paying the €70 million release clause. However, they are set to face stiff competition from Arsenal.
It appears the Gunners are ready to trigger Isak’s release clause as well. Arsenal have already contacted the player’s representatives, asking them whether the striker will be interested in playing at Emirates, despite the club’s failure to secure European football next season.
Arsenal and Real Madrid are not the only clubs interested in Isak either. Earlier reports suggested that Chelsea are scouting the Real Sociedad starlet, as a potential cost-effective alternative for top targets like Harry Kane, Romelu Lukaku and most of all, Erling Haaland.
The Norwegian’s asking price of almost €200 million has already put Chelsea off. They are, as a result, considering a move for Isak, although it seems Arsenal are far more serious as Mikel Arteta hopes to reshape his squad following a disappointing season.
The lack of productivity was a pressing issue for the Gunners, with star striker Pierre Emerick Aubameyang enduring a difficult campaign. In addition to his struggles, Arsenal are expected to cash in on their attacking duo of Alexandre Lacazette and Eddie Nketiah, with the latter being offered to Leeds United earlier this month.
Real Sociedad, though, are intent on keeping hold of the player for at least another season. They primarily want to indulge in a contract talk that might include the option to increase the release clause to €90 million, making it difficult for potential suitors to secure his services, especially in the current financial climate.
La Real, though, might be way too late as Isak himself is aware of the interest surrounding him and the fact that he will have the opportunity to make the switch to a bigger club in the summer, although Arsenal cannot offer any European football next season.
UEFA Euro 2020 Group E: Poland, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden | THT Preview
It will be interesting to see how he performs during the remainder of UEFA Euro 2020, with Sweden set to play against Ukraine in the Round of 16. It also remains to be seen if Arsenal actually press ahead with their interest in Isak by triggering his buyout clause.
