Newcastle United’s summer transfer window is shaping up to be a busy one, with two of their star players, Alexander Isak and Bruno Guimaraes, potentially heading for the exit door.
Despite the club’s confidence in retaining both players, former Scotland striker Frank McAvennie believes that Isak, in particular, could be on his way out.
According to McAvennie, Callum Wilson’s return from injury provides a ready-made replacement for Isak, making him the more likely of the two to leave. “It’s Guimaraes and the boy Isak, they’re the two that could go,” McAvennie explained in an exclusive interview with Football Insider. “I would sell Isak, he’s the one, because there’s Callum Wilson coming back from injury who could take his place if he leaves and he’s fit.”
Guimaraes, on the other hand, has been in exceptional form, attracting interest from top clubs like Arsenal. While McAvennie acknowledges that Guimaraes is a crucial player, he questions whether Newcastle can afford to keep him. “Guimaraes has been different class, but it depends on who comes in for him.
There’s been talks about Arsenal wanting him, but it could be anyone coming in to sign Guimaraes. I don’t know if they can afford to keep him.”
Newcastle United’s financial situation is a concern, with the club facing potential financial fair play sanctions. Despite being one of the richest clubs in the world, they may be forced to sell players to balance the books.
As McAvennie put it, “They’re the richest club in the world, but it’s stupid that they might have to sell to buy players, I don’t get it.” Only time will tell if Isak and Guimaraes will remain at St James’ Park or if they’ll be heading elsewhere this summer.