Newcastle’s striker search grows amid uncertainty over Isak future – who could they target? | OneFootball

Newcastle have already been making attempts to strengthen their attack this summer – and question marks over Alexander Isak’s future mean the need for attacking additions could yet increase.

Isak has told Newcastle that he wishes to explore a move away from the club this summer but Eddie Howe and co are reluctant to lose their star man.

The Magpies had already prioritised the signing of a striker due to the need to increase their squad depth, with another Champions League campaign on the horizon.

Newcastle only have two main striker options at present in Isak and William Osula, with injury prone Callum Wilson having departed the club this summer.

The need for back-up to Isak, who has also had his struggles with injuries, was already paramount going into the window.

Missing out on Ekitike

Their top target was Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike. However, a reported £70 million bid from Newcastle was rejected, allowing Liverpool to swoop in and secure the signing of the Frenchman in a blow to Magpies boss Eddie Howe.

Liverpool are also one of the clubs keen on Isak, having already expressed an interest in him this summer, though the signing of Ekitike makes a deal for the Swedish international is difficult at present and would likely require players to be sold first.

Alternatives to Ekitike – and Isak replacement?

In their search for alternatives, Newcastle have established an interest in RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Šeško as a primary target.

While Arsenal had been tracking Šeško earlier this summer, they now seem poised to sign Sporting’s Viktor Gyökeres instead.

The Slovenian, who is valued at £78m, scored 21 goals for Leipzig in 45 games last season and has established himself as one of the most exciting young strikers in Europe. A move for him would be more likely should Isak’s exit materialise, however.

Newcastle have also expressed an interest in Brentford’s Yoane Wissa, who netted 19 goals in 33 matches last season and has proven to be a reliable goalscorer since his move to the Bees.

Known for his pace, well-timed runs behind defences and clinical finishing, Wissa would be a sensible addition to this Newcastle squad. He also only has a year left on his deal at Brentford and is keen to move on.

Another RB Leipzig striker in Lois Openda has also been linked with a move to St James’ Park. His lightning pace and creativity, having notched 11 assists in all competitions last season, would also suit Howe’s fast-paced brand of football but he is far from the complete centre-forward.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin would be a cost-effective solution to Newcastle’s striker shortage, having left Everton on a free transfer this summer, but his injury record paired along with the fact he has not shown his best form for some time means he is not considered a top priority.

Randal Kolo Muani, meanwhile, will be allowed to leave Paris St Germain this summer if the right offer comes in for him. He scored eight goals in 16 Serie A games last season on loan at Juventus and is an intriguing proposition.

Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson appears an unlikely option at this point given the Blues’ hefty price tag on the Senegal international but is someone Newcastle could also consider.

Newcastle are confident of signing a striker this summer regardless of Isak’s future. But the latest developments mean they may have to commit more funds to attacking reinforcements than they had originally planned.