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

Confirmed, Isak will be a Barça player: senseless swap, farewell to 2 untouchables

Alexander Isak, absolute priority: Barça negotiates his signing with Newcastle

Barcelona has activated one of its major summer operations. Alexander Isak is the name that's gained the most traction in the club's offices. His signing is being negotiated directly with Newcastle and could include the departure of several players.

The idea is clear: strengthen the attack with a top-level goalscorer who can lead the offensive project. Hansi Flick has given the green light to the operation and believes the Swede fits perfectly. At 25 years old, Isak represents the ideal profile for Barça.

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

A strategic move that includes key departures

The main obstacle to closing the deal is financial. Isak is under contract until 2028 and is valued at around €130 million. To unlock the agreement, Barça is working on a swap deal that would significantly reduce the cost of the signing.

Raphinha is the first option proposed to Newcastle as part of the exchange. However, at Camp Nou, they're also considering including Ferran Torres. The Valencian has a good reputation in England and his departure would be key to balancing the books.

Alexander Isak celebrating a goal | @alex_isak

Isak is Flick's preferred striker to lead the attack next season. His movement, finishing, and ability to play as part of a team make him a very valuable asset. In addition, he already knows La Liga from his time at Real Sociedad.

The coaching staff values his versatility, as he can play both as a reference point and as a supporting forward. He's a profile that doesn't currently exist in Barça's squad. The sporting management sees him as the perfect replacement for Robert Lewandowski.

A man in a black sports jacket pointing forward with his index finger.
Hansi Flick | @FCBarcelona

His numbers place him among the best in Europe

Isak's season has been brilliant in the Premier League. He has played 42 official matches, scoring 27 goals and providing 6 assists. His performance has attracted the interest of other clubs, but Barça has already moved quickly.

Joan Laporta wants to close the deal as soon as possible to prevent his price from skyrocketing. Deco has been tasked with contacting the player's camp and negotiating with Newcastle. The English club, though reluctant, is listening to the offer carefully.

Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon celebrate a goal by doing a dance in the black and white Newcastle United kit
Isak | @NUFC

Financial fair play forces Barça to act intelligently in the market. That's why the swap formula is gaining traction. In exchange for Isak, Newcastle could receive an experienced winger like Raphinha or Ferran Torres.

Both players have high salaries that would ease Barça's wage bill. Moreover, their departure would open up space for Isak to have a leading role from day one. Flick wants a starting striker, not a top-level substitute.

Soccer players celebrating a goal on the field with expressions of joy and excitement.
Ferran Torres is untouchable for Flick | @FCBarcelona

The sporting project convinces the Swedish striker

Isak has viewed Barça's interest positively. He knows this is a club in rebuilding, but with ambition and young talent. He's excited about the idea of sharing the attack with Lamine Yamal, Nico Williams, and Pedri.

The Swede has requested sporting guarantees, especially regarding his role within the team. He wants to feel important and have continuity in a project that allows him to grow. His camp has been clear: if Barça makes a strong commitment, he's willing.

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

At Camp Nou, they believe Isak's signing would mark a turning point. Not only because of his talent, but because of what he represents. A young striker, proven in Europe and hungry for titles, is exactly what the team needs.

If the deal goes through, it would be one of the most important moves of the summer. Barça would strengthen its attack, free up wage bill space, and move on players Flick doesn't count on. Negotiations are underway and the outcome is very close.