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Arsenal Premier League title challenge has crumbled this season due to a combination of injuries and disciplinary setbacks. The Gunners have struggled with key absences, including the prolonged injury of star player Bukayo Saka, who has been sidelined since December with a hamstring issue.
Adding to their woes, Arsenal have been without a recognised centre-forward since the start of February, as both Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz have dealt with injuries. Gabriel Martinelli has only recently returned from his own hamstring problem, further limiting Mikel Arteta’s attacking options.
Discipline has also been a major concern, with Arsenal receiving five red cards this season, the most by any team in the league. They have played five matches with 10 men, managing just one win despite leading in four of those games before the dismissals. These setbacks have contributed to dropped points, leaving them 12 points adrift of league leaders Liverpool.
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Despite these struggles, many believe Arsenal should have been serious contenders for the title this season. With early predictions already emerging for next year, former Liverpool defender Steve Nicol has tipped the Gunners to become clear favourites if they secure the signing of Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak this summer.
Alexander Isak (Image credit: Getty Images)Mikel Arteta has reportedly identified Isak as his top transfer target since last summer. While Newcastle are said to be demanding £150 million for the Swedish forward, speculation continues to grow, with many expecting Arsenal to test the Magpies’ resolve with a formal bid.
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Nicol, speaking about Isak’s quality, believes the 24-year-old would transform Arsenal’s fortunes.
“He’s that good. He’s absolutely one of the best in Europe, and if you have ambitions to win the Champions League, you have to sign him,” Nicol said.
“As far as Arsenal are concerned, he would make all the difference. The number of games they’ve drawn or lost due to a lack of goals from their centre-forward—Isak would change that. If they sign him, Arsenal would absolutely be favourites to win the Premier League next season.”
With the summer transfer window approaching, all eyes will be on Arsenal to see if they make a move for Isak in their quest to reclaim Premier League glory.
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