Arsenal could face HUGE twist in transfer battle for Isak alternative

Arsenal are reportedly considering Samu Aghehowa as a potential alternative signing to Alexander Isak this summer but a bizarre twist could see the Gunners miss out on the prolific striker.

Aghehowa only joined Porto in the summer but the 20-year-old has had an electric start to life in Portugal with 13 goals in 19 league appearances as well as six in nine Europa League matches including a stunner against Roma last week.

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Having seen a transfer to Chelsea fall through last summer, Aghehowa has seen numerous Premier League sides take interest including the Blues, who appear to be harbouring regret over their decision last year.

Aston Villa will also reportedly battle Chelsea and Arsenal for Aghehowa’s signature, however CaughtOffside report that Newcastle also have the Spaniard on their shortlist if they sell Isak this summer.

Isak’s 19 Premier League goals this season have seen him coveted by numerous teams including Arsenal and Liverpool but the Gunners are less likely to be able to afford his asking price, rumoured to be in excess of €150 million.

Liverpool are believed to be ready to step up their interest in Isak and, should a move materialise, Arsenal could see their alternative in Aghehowa targeted by the Magpies, leaving Mikel Arteta’s side scrambling for yet another option in attack.

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Arsenal are determined to sign a striker this summer after failing to bring in a forward in multiple transfer windows, leading to an injury crisis up front for Arteta in recent weeks.

Isak is thought to be Arsenal’s dream target but the 25-year-old’s price makes him an unrealistic option, leading to players such as Aghehowa and Viktor Gyokeres being considered as alternatives.

Arsenal are still thought to favour a move for Benjamin Sesko too but the RB Leipzig striker is also wanted by numerous other sides and could command a fee of more than €70m.

Sesko has also been tracked by Newcastle and Eddie Howe’s side could have a financial edge over Arsenal in any of their pursuits if they do receive a record windfall from the sale of Isak, although their focus is on keeping hold of their talisman this summer.