Arsenal Can Bank £100m from These Four Sales to Fund Alexander Isak Transfer – Opinion
As the January transfer window approaches, Arsenal finds itself on the cusp of making significant moves to bolster their squad. With reports swirling around the potential signing of Newcastle’s star striker Alexander Isak, the Gunners could be looking at a blockbuster transfer that could reshape their attacking options. However, to make this dream a reality, they will likely need to generate substantial funds through player sales. In this opinion piece, we examine four players Arsenal could sell to raise the needed £100 million to secure Isak’s services.
**1. Folarin Balogun – £40m**
Fresh off a successful loan spell at Reims, where he finished as the club’s top scorer, Folarin Balogun’s value has skyrocketed. The young striker has proven his capabilities in Ligue 1, showcasing his goal-scoring prowess and technical skills. With Arsenal already well-stocked in the forward department, selling Balogun for around £40 million could be a smart move. Not only would it free up funds, but it would also allow the player to pursue regular first-team football elsewhere.
**2. Nicolas Pépé – £25m**
Nicolas Pépé’s time at Arsenal has been marred by inconsistency and injuries, prompting many to question whether he fits into Mikel Arteta’s long-term plans. The Ivorian winger is set to enter the final year of his contract, making this summer the ideal time for Arsenal to cash in on him. A bid of around £25 million could be expected for a player with considerable talent, but one whose performances have not lived up to his hefty price tag. Selling Pépé would not only create funds but also clear space for new arrivals.
**3. Rob Holding – £15m**
Rob Holding has been a reliable squad player for Arsenal, but the emergence of younger talents like William Saliba and Jakub Kiwior has limited his role. With a few Premier League clubs likely to be interested in his services, the Gunners could potentially secure around £15 million for the English defender. Such a sale would not only provide funds but also allow Holding to seek regular playing time elsewhere, benefiting both parties.
**4. Albert Sambi Lokonga – £20m**
Despite showing promise during his early days at Arsenal, Albert Sambi Lokonga has struggled to find his footing in the team under Arteta. The arrival of Declan Rice and improved performances from other midfielders have pushed Lokonga further down the pecking order. A sale in the region of £20 million would be an attractive proposition for both the player and the club, allowing Arsenal to invest that money in a player who can make a more significant impact.
**Conclusion**
By strategically offloading these four players—Folarin Balogun, Nicolas Pépé, Rob Holding, and Albert Sambi Lokonga—Arsenal could raise approximately £100 million, providing them with the necessary funds to secure the services of Alexander Isak. The Swedish international has shown tremendous potential and will undoubtedly enhance the Gunners’ attacking lineup. As the transfer window looms, Arsenal must act decisively to reshape their squad and pursue the targets that can propel them back into contention for major honors.
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