Civil WAR breaks out at Arsenal over Liverpool target

Arsenal announced the appointment of Andrea Berta as sporting director on March 30 and the club’s summer transfer plans have been immediately upended.

The Gunners have been tipped to rival Liverpool in the upcoming window for Newcastle striker Alexander Isak but following the arrival of the Italian executive those plans now seem to be on ice.

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It’s likely that Newcastle will ask upwards of £150 million for Sweden star Isak and that could put off a lot of potential suitors.

And with Mikel Arteta and previous director Edu overseeing mammoth spending at the Emirates during their time at the club, Arsenal will be seeking cheaper options.

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That could leave Liverpool with a relatively clear run at 26-year-old Isak, whose future at St. James’ Park looks in doubt.

Arsenal opt against Isak deal

If Newcastle fail to reach the Champions League then Isak could be on his way and there have also been suggestions that he is ready to turn down a new contract which would have kept his value high.

Isak is contracted until 2028 but the Magpies might have to compromise on any transfer fee should he fail to sign a new deal.

And with Arsenal civil war brewing over Isak, the club are ready to go against Arteta’s wishes and instead target Viktor Gyokeres of Sporting CP.

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Gyokeres, a compatriot of Isak, could be sold for around €70 million (£59m) by the Portuguese giants this summer and Arsenal are now in the mix for his signature according to the Athletic.

Arsenal turn attentions to Gyokeres

“Gyokeres has long been admired by Arsenal's new sporting director Andrea Berta - whose appointment was confirmed on Sunday - and is expected to figure prominently among those the club consider signing in the transfer window,” a report reads.

“Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is a huge fan of Alexander Isak, however, Newcastle United have no intention of letting their star player leave St James' Park and it would likely take a massive fee for them to even consider his departure.”

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If Arsenal decide against a deal for Isak, then it reduces the number of interested parties. In turn that could mean Liverpool get their striking upgrade in the form of a man who broke their hearts in the recent Carabao Cup final.