Newcastle United chiefs will deliver a clear “not for sale” message on Alexander Isak to Arsenal if they come knocking in the January transfer window.

The Gunners have been tracking Isak for the last 12 months while Chelsea attempted a cheeky bid for the striker’s services during the PSR health check countdown in June. But Newcastle made it clear then that they have no intention of selling the Sweden international.
Isak enjoyed a massive tribute from supporters before Monday night’s game against West Ham, which ended in a 2-0 defeat, when Wor Flags put on epic displays at either end of St James’ Park. There has been plenty talk of Isak’s contract status on Tyneside but he remains on a deal until 2028 and Newcastle are in a strong position ahead of potential January interest.
And it has emerged that the Wor Flags display was not just a show of devotion from supporters, it was a message to Isak from within the club from the boardroom to the backroom staff to display just how much he is valued at St James’ Park.

Newcastle want to build a team around Isak and there is a feeling inside the club that his contract situation will naturally unfold until all parties are happy. There is no panic from within the four walls of the St James’ Park boardroom that Isak is unsettled.

The feeling is that Isak can go on to be the club’s next number 9 occupant and give himself a crack at becoming the club’s all-time leading scorer if he wants it enough. Of course, that record is held by the one and only Alan Shearer at the moment with 206 but at 25 and with 40 strikes to his name, Isak has time on his side.
Speaking about Isak’s potential to grow even bigger, Eddie Howe said this week: “Alex has got undoubted qualities. I would put him right up there in terms of world strikers that are currently playing.

“But I feel that his potential is great. I think he can really, if he can continue on the path he has been the last few seasons, continue to go and prove himself as one of the world’s best.”

And although there were some suggestions that Isak did not look grateful for the flag display as he walked into St James’ on Monday, it was very much a case of the striker being focused on the job against West Ham. He later took to Instagram and posted: “Very disappointing result last night. However I want to take my time to thank @worflags and the fanbase for this incredible experience walking onto the pitch and see this! Truly overwhelming and a moment I will never forget. We go again on Saturday!”