Alan Shearer is not joking when he talks about Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak snubbing Arsenal.
It is well known that Arsenal would love to sign Alexander Isak, as the mainstream media continue to swoon over the idea of the 25-year-old joining the Gunners.
Newcastle are annoyed by the Isak chatter, given the fact that their player has never hinted that he wants to leave St James’ Park.
Instead, Newcastle are planning to keep Isak. They have no visions of cashing in on him this summer. In fact, Newcastle want to extend Isak’s contract.
But that will not stop the rumour mill going round and round, at a time when Arsenal desperately need to sign a goalscorer as they prepare to miss out on another Premier League title.
READ MORE: Who is Alexander Isak? Age, Height, Family, Nationality, Roots
Alan Shearer explains why Alexander Isak is not leaving Newcastle United
That is why Gary Lineker has joked on the latest episode of The Rest Is Football podcast that Arsenal could sign Isak.
However, Toon legend Alan Shearer was in no mood for jokes, as he brutally explained to Arsenal fans why Isak is not going to swap St James’ Park for the Emirates Stadium.
“No, they couldn’t,” he said in response to Lineker’s quip.
I’ve said it once and I’ll say it again and again and again. I don’t think Arsenal would be able to afford him. I really don’t. And I’m being serious on that.”
Lineker replied: “He would cost an awful lot of money, that’s for sure.”
“Yeah, why would he want to go there if Newcastle get into the Champions League?” Shearer added.
“Potentially Newcastle could have a great, great season – potentially. They’ve got a chance of getting into the Champions League. They’ve got a chance of winning the Carabao. And as we sit here now, they’ve also got a decent chance in the FA Cup when you look at who’s out of the competition and the draw they’ve got at home.”
Season-defining period for Newcastle United
Firstly, Shearer is right – Arsenal will not be able to afford Isak.
Secondly, the Sweden international could have no reason to want to join Arsenal, especially if Newcastle United qualify for the Champions League.
The Magpies took a giant step towards achieving that goal on Sunday, as Newcastle United beat Nottingham Forest 4-3 at St James’ Park. The win lifted Eddie Howe’s side up to fifth, which could be enough to qualify for Europe’s elite competition.
At the same time, Newcastle are challenging for silverware. They face Liverpool in the Carabao Cup final in March, while there is still the chance for FA Cup glory too. Newcastle are in fifth round action on Sunday, as Brighton travel north to Tyneside.
This is a pivotal few weeks for Newcastle United, and it could also be pivotal towards keeping Isak at St James’ Park.
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