Alan Shearer names two strikers who are perfect replacements for Newcastle’s Alexander Isak
Newcastle legend Alan Shearer has chosen the two strikers he would like the Toon to pursue amid Alexander Isak’s uncertain future.
Isak is exploring a move away from Newcastle and Liverpool made a bid of £110million to try and prize the striker away from St James’ Park.
However, Newcastle claim Isak is not for sale and a move to Liverpool is off, but the 25-year-old has not partaken in any pre-season matches so far.
Eddie Howe has targeted new additions up-front including RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko who has since joined Manchester United.
Shearer makes Newcastle striker claim
Speaking to BBC Sport [August 11], Shearer claimed that Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins and Brentford forward Yoane Wissa are “proven Premier League strikers and probably the best-case scenario” for Newcastle.
Wissa wants a move away from Brentford and Liverpool are also interested in the 28-year-old, who scored 19 Premier League goals last season.
Aston Villa have recently signed Evan Guessand from Nice, meaning Watkins could be available if Newcastle meet their valuation of the player.
Football Insider exclusively revealed in July that Aston Villa wanted to sell Watkins.
Newcastle desperately need to decide which striker to pursue
Football Insider Verdict
Newcastle are heading into their final league match of the season at Aston Villa with only one natural centre-forward.
22-year-old William Osula has little Premier League experience and has only scored one Premier League goal for the club.
That is a concern for Howe, and with just weeks of the transfer window remaining, the manager and the club are desperate to agree a deal for a proven striker.
| Appearances | 54 |
| Goals | 17 |
| Assists | 14 |
Wissa and Watkins both fit the both, though both players will have little re-sale value so agreeing a favourable deal is required.
Brentford and Villa though know about the Isak situation, and the money they could receive if they decide to sell the Swedish international, meaning Newcastle are likely to pay over the asking price for any new signing.
However, bringing in a striker through the door who can hit double figures is crucial for Howe as Anthony Gordon will otherwise have to vacate his left wing position to fill the role.
Gordon will prove a threat, but that is not a scenario that Howe can have for the entire season.