Alexander Isak has sent Arsenal and Chelsea the perfect message ahead of the January transfer window.

The 25-year-old striker was heavily linked with an exit from Newcastle United - as recently as this summer - following his impressive performances in the Premier League.

Last season, Isak featured 30 times in the English top-flight, netting 21 goals, with only Erling Haaland and Cole Palmer managing to score more.

This season, the Sweden international has also continued to play a vital role in Eddie Howe's side, helping the Magpies climb up to ninth in the table.

Before he was side-lined with his toe injury, Isak had fired Newcastle up to fifth.

But, since then, Newcastle have dropped out of the European qualification spots.

Despite this, the Swede, who sees his contract at St.

James' Park expire in June 2028, remains one of the most coveted frontmen in Europe.

His market value will have only rocketed following his impressive performance against Arsenal this Saturday afternoon, sending potential suitors the perfect message.

Isak nodded the Magpies ahead inside the opening quarter of an hour after latching on to a delight cross from Anthony Gordon.

Speaking to reporters after the game, Howe was delighted with the goal.

He said: "I wouldn't say it is a trademark goal for Alex, but I'm really pleased to see it.

Anthony can give you that on his natural right-hand side and it was a great ball.

"It was always going to take a moment like that as it was a game of few chances," added Howe.

"It was 95 minutes of concentration and consistency in our attitude.

"We managed and controlled some very good players pretty well.

It's three points, but it means so much because we hadn't won for a while in the Premier League.

I'm sure it will do us the world of good.

"According to The Daily Mail last month, if Newcastle don't qualify for the Champions League for next season then Isak will 'explore' a move away - with Arsenal ready to pounce.

The report states that there are 'doubts' in his camp over the speed of the project in Tyneside.

It's said that there were preliminary discussions towards the end of last season, but the striker and his entourage were reluctant to commit further.

The Daily Mail added that the Gunners would 'most likely' be prepared to break the British transfer record on Isak.

Back in May, Howe revealed that he's 'desperate' to hold on to his talisman and Bruno Guimaraes.

The Newcastle manager said: "They are suited to how we play.

They are two outstanding players.

"They can, and have, made a difference in numerous games for us, but it is always about the team for me - how it functions and how they give a platform for those two to play.

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