“If I’m Arsenal, I’ll be dying to sign this player right now and not Ivan Toney or even Mbappe”- Manchester United Legendary goalkeeper Van Der Sar tell the Gunners which player they MUST sign amid FFP struggles that could transform their team and make Arteta’s work easy and secured for the next decade atleast.
Former Manchester United goalkeeper Van Der Sar has advised Arsenal to consider acquiring a player from Newcastle United. This suggestion arises in the context of Newcastle grappling with potential Financial Fair Play (FFP) issues due to substantial investments since the Saudi Public Investment Fund takeover in 2021. Despite progress under Eddie Howe, transforming from relegation contenders to top-four challengers, the team recently reported losses of £150 million.
Facing potential spending restrictions, Newcastle may need to offload valuable players to bolster their squad. Van Der Sar proposes that Arsenal, under manager Mikel Arteta, seize this opportunity and make a bid for Alexander Isak. The Swedish international, acquired from Real Sociedad in a record-breaking transfer, has quickly become a beloved figure at St. James’ Park in just 18 months.
Van Der Sar envisions Isak enhancing Arsenal’s goal-scoring capabilities, particularly given the modest combined goal tally of their current forwards, Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah, at eight goals. In contrast, Isak has netted 10 goals. Highlighting Isak’s constant threat, especially against Manchester City, the former goalkeeper urges Arsenal to make a robust effort to secure his services.
Arsenal’s potential interest in Isak is fueled by their own financial struggles and constraints tied to profit and sustainability rules. Van Der Sar speculates on potential hurdles for Arsenal, suggesting they may need to sell players before making further acquisitions, possibly hindering a move for Isak to a powerhouse like Real Madrid.
Isak’s recent pivotal role in Newcastle’s match against Manchester City, where he scored the equalizer in a 3-2 defeat, underscores his significance. Newcastle’s chief executive, Darren Eales, acknowledges that no player is exempt from potential departures as the club strategically navigates player trades to achieve its goals.
In summary, Van Der Sar’s recommendation for Arsenal to pursue Isak reflects the intricate financial challenges for Newcastle, where selling players becomes crucial to FFP compliance. Arsenal, facing their financial hurdles, stands to benefit by fortifying their squad with a talent like Alexander Isak.
