Football: Newcastle breaks club record for Sweden striker Isak
LONDON (AFP) – Newcastle United broke their transfer record on Friday (Aug 26) with a reported £58m ($95.3m) swoop for Real Sociedad’s Swedish striker Alexander Isak.
Isak, 22, agreed a “long-term contract” with the English Premier League club and could make his debut in Sunday’s game at Wolverhampton Wanderers.
The tall 1.92m goalscorer scored 44 goals in 132 games for La Liga side Sociedad and has netted nine times in 37 caps for Sweden.
Isak, who also had a spell with Borussia Dortmund, is Newcastle’s fourth signing since the end of last season following the arrivals of Matt Targett, Nick Pope and Sven Botman.
“I’m glad to have done it. It was a big, big decision for me but it’s a decision I’m really happy with,” Isak said.
“It’s a great, historic club that I think everyone would want to play for, with great fans. They were a big part of why I came here and also the project of the club, which I really believe in.
“You always want to go into a team and know how they play. Newcastle play very attractive football and I want to be part of that.”
Newcastle boss Eddie Howe had been looking for attacking reinforcements after striker Callum Wilson suffered a hamstring strain that is likely to sideline him for several weeks.
Isak’s signing is the latest indication of Newcastle’s ability to flex their financial muscles thanks to their Saudi-based owners, who took over at St James’ Park last year.
“I am very excited that Alexander has chosen to join us. He is an outstanding talent who can make a great contribution to the team,” said Howe.
“He’s technically very good, with a mix of qualities that will complement us, but he’s also at a great age to grow with this club.
“I would like to thank the club’s owners and transfer committee for bringing Alexander to Newcastle. We are all delighted to have him on board.”