Despite the purchase of Manchester City’s Ferran Torres, Barcelona’s search for a new forward is expected to continue owing to the issue surrounding Ousmane Dembele.
While Xavi Hernandez had planned to use Torres as a false-nine with Dembele and Ansu Fati on the flanks, the Frenchman’s refusal to sign a new contract means he won’t be available for long. That is why Barcelona is looking for a new striker.
The Catalan giants are interested in Karim Adeyemi, Anthony, and Erling Haaland. Alexander Isak of Real Sociedad was another name Xavi was considering to boost his frontline.
The former Borussia Dortmund striker is a promising striker who has showed flashes of potential since joining Sociedad in 2019, scoring 40 goals in 110 games.
According to El Nacional, the Barcelona manager had the Swede on his wishlist, with contacts being made with La Real through intermediaries to investigate the potential of a deal.
However, Imanol Alguacil’s side countered by referring to the 22-year-€90 old’s million release clause, knowing that Barça are unable to pay that sum. The Basque Country club has no intention of doing business with the Blaugrana, as they are direct competitors for a place in the Champions League this season.
As a result, Barcelona are no longer in the running for Isak’s signature, with Arsenal emerging as the frontrunners to sign the Swedish international.
Mikel Arteta is also on the search for a new striker, with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang frozen out of the squad and Alexandre Lacazette’s contract expiring at the end of the season. Isak is a fan favourite at the Emirates, and Sociedad appear to be more willing to work with the Gunners.
The north London club also has the financial muscle to pull off a deal, which is why they have beaten Barcelona to the 22-year-signature. old’s
Arsenal’s pursuit of Isak might clear the way for the Gabonese forward to join Barça, with Aubameyang connected with the Catalan club.