Arsenal: Alexander Isak transfer calls for high priority

Arsenal may not need a striker at this very minute but when they do, Alexander Isak is the man they need to break the bank to sign. While centre-forward is last on the priority list this summer transfer window that doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be planned for.

Folarin Balogun is a hugely exciting talent. Supporters have yet to see him tested on the Premier League stage and while there will be glimpses of that next season, there is still a long way to go in his development before he’s a ready-made starter.

If he continues on his current trajectory then Arsenal may have an internal solution to a problem that is yet to arise. Set in stone as the third choice striker at the club next season working on the basis that Eddie Nketiah and Alexandre Lacazette leave north London, he will take strides over 12 months where the club can really evaluate his ability.

Further down the line, when Lacazette eventually departs and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is nearing the end of his Arsenal cycle, a new centre-forward will have to assume the mantle.

Alexander Isak transfer should be a high priority for Arsenal if there is even the faintest chance in this summer window or the next

Alexander Isak has to be considered as that man.

The Swedish striker has just come off the back of an excellent campaign in La Liga, winning the division’s Young Player of the Year award, and if he continues to put in performances like he did in his nation’s battling 0-0 draw with Spain in the European Championships, the suitors will be lining up.

A mesmeric blend of elegance, drive and pace, the best compliment that can be paid to him is that he has an air of Nwankwo Kanu about him. Isak is like the Nigerian with the extra pace.

His tall frame is wonderfully deceptive as he can glide through challenges and ride the duels effectively, drop off to link play intelligently and stand on the shoulder of the centre-backs ready to chase balls through lines.

Put it this way, if Spain had him in their side they would have comfortably won about 3-0.

This isn’t just about one performance, however; but instead a rising trajectory that will see him reach the very top of the striking world, whether at Arsenal or elsewhere. With a gigantic release clause at Real Sociedad of £60m, as well as Borussia Dortmund having a buy-back option, if Arsenal don’t spend the money apparently have – given their Ben White chase – someone else will.

Encapsulating all the traits desired in a modern centre-forward, he’d sit neatly at the front of an Arsenal attack and transform its outlook. He should be a transfer priority. Knowing Arsenal are looking at him is encouraging, but then again they’ve looked at half the world without ever being successful.

He’s due a fabulous career and if that has even the faintest chance of being at Arsenal then, well, there should be no second thoughts.