A soccer player in a black and white uniform in front of the FC Barcelona crest on a pink background.

Confirmed, Crazy Swap With Newcastle: 2 Barça Players for Isak

The two entities have reached one of the most talked-about agreements in the market

The transfer market continues to generate rumors, and one of the most recent involves Alexander Isak and FC Barcelona. The Swedish forward from Newcastle United is one of Joan Laporta and Hansi Flick's favorites to strengthen the Barça attack for the upcoming season. However, his high price complicates the operation.

In this situation, the possibility of a swap between both clubs has emerged. Newcastle has set its sights on a Barça player, and the blaugrana team has replied with its own proposal.

Alexander Isak celebrating a goal | @alex_isak

Alexander Isak, the Dream Signing for Barça

The Swedish forward is one of the stars of the Premier League. His goal-scoring ability, speed, and versatility make him the ideal profile to replace Robert Lewandowski in the long term.

With 19 goals and 5 assists in 28 matches, Isak has been key in Newcastle's season. His performance has made him one of the most sought-after forwards in European soccer, and Barça sees in him an opportunity to strengthen its squad.

The problem is his price.  Newcastle paid 70 million euros for him in 2022, and now his market value exceeds 100 million euros. For Barça, which is still dealing with financial problems, a direct purchase is impossible.

Alexander Isak celebrates a goal with his fists clenched in the black with white stripes of Newcastle United
Alexander Isak with Newcastle United | @NUFC

Newcastle Wants Raphinha, but Barça Refuses

The English team has made it clear that its goal is to sign Raphinha. The Brazilian is at his best since arriving at Barça, with 23 goals and 14 assists in 34 matches.

Newcastle sees Raphinha as the perfect reinforcement for its attack and has proposed a possible swap with Isak. But Barça has flatly refused.

Flick considers Raphinha untouchable and key in his scheme. The management believes that his market value will continue to rise, so they don't want to part with him. The player has made it clear that his priority is to succeed at Barça and he doesn't consider leaving.

A soccer player in a FC Barcelona uniform walks in a dark environment.
Raphinha | @FCBarcelona

Barça Strikes Back

Despite the refusal to include Raphinha in the operation, Laporta and Deco have struck back with a new proposal.

Instead of the Brazilian, Barça has offered Ferran Torres and Ansu Fati as a trade for Isak.

🔹 Ferran Torres has had an inconsistent season, and his departure would help free up salary mass.

Soccer players in action during a match, one in a blue and red uniform and the other in a black and white uniform, while a referee watches in the background.
The Valencian had opportunities to score several goals against his former team | @FCBarcelona

🔹 Ansu Fati has yet to regain his best level after injuries, and the club considers that a departure could be beneficial for both parties.

Newcastle hasn't given a definitive answer, but it values the possibility of including Ferran or Ansu in the operation. Everything will depend on whether the English see in either of them an attractive option for their project.

A soccer player smiles while wearing a red bib during training.
Ansu Fati isn't performing as expected | @FCBarcelona

Will the Swap Be Finalized?

The negotiation is ongoing, and there could be news in the coming days. Newcastle wants Raphinha, but Barça doesn't yield. Now, the key will be whether they accept Ferran Torres or Ansu Fati as part of the deal.

The market hasn't closed yet, and Barça is still looking for ways to strengthen its squad without compromising its finances. Signing Isak remains a dream for Laporta and Flick, but everything will depend on how the negotiations progress.