Alexander Isak has been a long-term admirer for Arsenal but a transfer is unlikely to materialise anytime soon

Alexander Isak is top of Arsenal's shortlist when it comes to signing a new striker but the Newcastle hitman won't be joining Mikel Arteta's side in the January transfer window

Arsenal’s hopes of signing Alexander Isak have been dealt a blow despite Newcastle seemingly needing to offload players this month. Isak enhanced his already growing reputation this week by scoring at the Emirates on Tuesday, as the Magpies secured a 2-0 first leg lead in their Carabao Cup semi-final.

Isak was linked with a move to Arsenal last summer with Newcastle scrambling to pass the Premier League's PSR rules, but would manage to keep hold of their talismanic frontman. He's shown once again this season why he's among the world's best strikers, with 15 goals in all competitions and 13 of those coming in the Premier League.

Over the years, Arsenal fans have witnessed some impressive performances by strikers wearing the No14 shirt - but this was one they will want to forget in a hurry. Alexander Isak tormented Arsenal as Newcastle ran out 2-0 winners on Tuesday night to put themselves in a commanding position going into the second leg of this Carabao Cup semi-final next month.