Newcastle United: £80m Alexander Isak question emerges after what he did to Everton star at St James’ Park
The Times reporter Martin Hardy has raised the question of Alexander Isak’s worth after he beat Jarrad Branthwaite – who has been valued at £80million – in the build-up to Newcastle United’s goal in their 1-1 draw with Everton at St James Park on 2 April.
Isak latched onto a ball over the top from Harvey Barnes and dribbled past the Everton defender before finding the bottom corner to put Newcastle 1-0 up in the 15th minute at St James’ Park.
The Swedish Magpies striker’s dazzling recent performances have led to speculation that Newcastle’s resolve could be tested with a bid this summer, but Hardy feels the Tyneside club should not have to sell their prized asset, writing on The Times: “If Jarrad Branthwaite is valued at £80 million by would-be-suitors like Manchester United, then what price does that make Alexander Isak worth?
“And if Newcastle have to sell Isak to progress, then what on earth is the point of being a club in the Premier League with ambition? If that is the case, the fight to stop the Super League was futile, because it’s already here. Clubs like Newcastle and Aston Villa will never be given a chance.
“Isak is 24 and getting better and better. It was his movement that forced an error from Branthwaite as he skipped past the Everton defender to score his 19th goal of the season in Newcastle’s 1-1 draw on Tuesday night.”
Alexander Isak attracting attention after Everton display
Isak was superb against Everton at St James’ Park, stretching his Premier League scoring streak to four games – in that time, he has netted five goals, taking his league tally for the season to 15, as well as recording an assist.
The Swede’s dribble past Branthwaite was no mean feat – the 21-year-old Everton defender is enjoying a strong campaign of his own and is blessed with both pace and height, standing at 6’5″.
However, Isak is in unplayable form and only injury has prevented him from adding to his already impressive tally – the striker has scored eight goals in his last nine games but missed out against Luton Town, Nottingham Forest and Bournemouth in between after suffering a groin injury against Aston Villa.
If he can continue to beat defenders of Branthwaite’s quality with ease, Newcastle will surely be fielding nine-figure offers for their star striker this summer.
In other Everton news, a move for a talented Juventus youngster could be on the cards despite a potential contract extension.
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