Barça has suffered a major blow before the transfer market begins and has started to say goodbye to one of its major objectives for the summer. It's not surprising: one of the major challenges for the culé sports management is to find a forward who can take on Robert Lewandowski's role in the coming years. Although the Polish player has renewed until 2026 and maintains an extraordinary performance, the club is aware that his age is a factor to consider.
With 37 years on the horizon, it's evident that Lewandowski won't be able to maintain the same physical level and play all the minutes as in other seasons in the European elite. In light of this scenario, Joan Laporta and Deco have analyzed several options to strengthen the offensive line, even though the economic situation considerably limits the room for maneuver. However, just when it seemed they already had a great candidate, the high figures being discussed in the market have complicated the entire operation for the Catalan club.
Moving Away from Camp Nou
According to the latest reports mentioned in the press, one of the forwards that Barça liked the most was Alexander Isak. The Swedish striker has established himself as one of the most outstanding offensive references in Europe since he arrived at Newcastle, where he has shown a constant and very surprising evolution. His scoring ability and talent made him an attractive option to replace Lewandowski in the not-too-distant future.
However, Newcastle has made it clear on more than one occasion that they don't intend to part with their star for less than 100 million euros, a figure unattainable for Barça. In addition, other clubs are also keeping an eye on the Swedish striker's situation and, if they decide to enter the bidding, they will easily surpass Barcelona. In this regard, Hansi Flick has determined that signing a '9' is not a priority this summer, so the option of Isak has been definitively ruled out in the short term.
Arsenal Enters the Scene
With Barça withdrawing from the bidding, the London team has taken the lead to sign Isak. Mikel Arteta has been looking for a reliable and consistent scorer for some time, as Gabriel Jesus doesn't meet expectations and also lacks reliable replacements. Therefore, the Spanish coach considers Isak the ideal profile to enhance his squad's offense and is willing to make a strong and historic investment.
Arsenal's interest in Isak is not new, but the lack of a reliable forward has accelerated their decision. In fact, they could offer up to 120 million euros, which would make him the most expensive signing in the club's history alongside Declan Rice. Meanwhile, Barça resigns itself to losing the opportunity to sign him, and Arsenal prepares to make a significant economic effort.