Alexander Isak Snubs Arsenal? Newcastle Striker Backed to Join Liverpool Instead as Jamie Carragher Casts Doubt on Arsenal, Real Madrid, and Barcelona Moves

Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher has thrown his weight behind Liverpool as a serious contender to sign Newcastle United’s star striker Alexander Isak, downplaying Arsenal’s chances of landing the Swedish forward. With the summer transfer window approaching, Isak’s future has become a hot topic, with multiple European powerhouses monitoring his situation.

Carragher: Liverpool a Stronger Suitor Than Arsenal

As Arsenal and Liverpool both seek a prolific No. 9, Carragher has dismissed the assumption that the Gunners are the favorites, insisting Liverpool are just as desperate for attacking reinforcements. With Mohamed Salah’s future uncertain and Darwin Núñez yet to find consistency, the Reds are expected to prioritize a high-caliber goal scorer in the transfer market.

European Giants in the Mix

Isak’s impressive form has also caught the eye of Real Madrid and Barcelona, but their respective situations could complicate a move. Madrid’s anticipated signing of Kylian Mbappe may rule them out of the race, while Barcelona’s financial constraints make a big-money move unlikely. Meanwhile, Arsenal’s urgency for attacking reinforcements has grown due to injury concerns for Gabriel Jesus, Bukayo Saka, and Kai Havertz.

Carragher Questions Arsenal’s Position

Speaking on the ‘It’s Called Soccer!’ podcast, Carragher challenged the widespread notion that Arsenal are the clear front-runners for Isak’s signature.

“I don’t understand why people assume Isak is heading to Arsenal,” Carragher remarked. “Liverpool need a striker just as much, if not more. If he’s available this summer, Liverpool will be right there in the race.”

The Champions League Factor

Carragher emphasized that any move for Isak would likely be influenced by Champions League ambitions, suggesting Liverpool could have the upper hand if they reclaim the Premier League title.

“Real Madrid already have Mbappe incoming, and Barcelona may not have the funds. Isak will want to join a club that can win the Champions League, and Liverpool fit that profile,” he explained.

Arsenal’s Challenge in Securing Isak

Carragher also cast doubt on Arsenal’s ability to outmaneuver Liverpool in the race for Isak, particularly considering the hefty price tag Newcastle will place on their prized asset.

“Everyone talks like Arsenal are getting Isak, but is that realistic? He’s under contract for another three years. Liverpool also need a top striker, yet no one seems to be linking him with them,” he said.

He added that if Liverpool clinch the Premier League title, they would be in an even stronger position to attract top talent like Isak.

“If Liverpool win the league and Isak is leaving Newcastle, wouldn’t he prefer the champions? Arsenal may struggle to compete financially if Liverpool make a serious move,” Carragher asserted.

Newcastle’s Stance and Potential Transfer Fee

Newcastle are unlikely to let Isak leave easily, with reports suggesting they would demand around £130 million for their top scorer. This could be a major stumbling block for Arsenal, who have already invested heavily in their squad in recent transfer windows.

Liverpool’s Transfer Priorities

Under new sporting director Richard Hughes, Liverpool’s recruitment strategy is expected to focus on reinforcing their attack. With Salah aging and Núñez struggling for consistency, a move for a clinical striker like Isak would make sense for the Reds.

Arsenal’s Alternative Striker Targets

Should Arsenal fail to land Isak, they may turn to other striking options. Victor Osimhen, Dusan Vlahovic, and Ivan Toney have all been linked with the Gunners, indicating they have alternative targets in mind.

Barcelona and Real Madrid’s Situations

Barcelona’s interest in Isak depends on their ability to offload Robert Lewandowski and free up funds, while Real Madrid’s focus on Mbappe makes them unlikely to pursue Isak unless they offload another forward.

Who Will Win the Race for Isak?

Considering all factors, Liverpool’s position in the Isak race appears stronger than Arsenal’s. Their financial power, pressing need for a top striker, and potential Premier League success could make them an attractive destination for the Swedish star.

If Newcastle agree to sell, Isak will have no shortage of suitors. However, as Carragher pointed out, the club that wins the league often holds the best bargaining power. Whether Liverpool can convince him to join remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—Isak’s future will be one of the biggest transfer sagas of the summer.