Newcastle leading race for “unbelievable” £359k-p/w Haaland-esque striker
Newcastle United Lead Chase for “Unbelievable” Striker Compared to Haaland
Newcastle Target Striker Amid Isak Transfer Rumours
Newcastle United are reportedly at the front of the queue to sign Juventus forward Dusan Vlahovic — a striker often compared to Erling Haaland — as speculation around Alexander Isak’s future continues to swirl.
Isak is enjoying a standout season, having netted 27 goals and played a pivotal role in helping the Magpies secure the EFL Cup.
Unsurprisingly, his performances have attracted interest from several Premier League heavyweights.
Arsenal are reportedly planning a sensational £127 million bid, naming him their primary summer target. Liverpool and Chelsea have also shown interest, according to reports including Fabrizio Romano.
While manager Eddie Howe is determined to keep hold of his star forward, Newcastle are also considering contingency plans should Isak choose to leave this summer.
Newcastle Eyeing Juventus Star Vlahovic
According to a report from Italy (via Sport Witness), Newcastle are now leading the race to sign Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic, who appears likely to leave Turin after failing to agree on a contract extension.
His current £359,000-a-week deal runs until 2026, but Juventus may look to offload him if no renewal is signed.
Clubs in Turkey are also reportedly in the mix, though Newcastle are currently considered frontrunners. The report doesn’t confirm if Vlahovic is being pursued as a direct Isak replacement, suggesting Newcastle might move for the Serbian striker regardless of the Swede’s future.
Vlahovic Could Revive Career with Summer Move
Vlahovic previously impressed in Serie A, scoring 24 goals in the 2021–22 season. However, he’s struggled to match that form this year, netting just nine times. A summer transfer could offer a fresh start and a chance to rediscover his top form.
At 25, he still has time to develop into one of Europe’s elite forwards. Once likened to Erling Haaland, Vlahovic has also drawn praise from former Partizan Belgrade coach Zarko Lazetic, who called him “unbelievable” both on and off the pitch.
Still, it’s unclear how Vlahovic would fit into Eddie Howe’s system, particularly if Isak stays, as Newcastle have primarily used a 4-3-3 formation with one central striker.
Vlahovic could serve as a high-quality replacement if Isak departs, but Newcastle’s top priority should be holding on to their current No. 9.
