Newcastle United continue to mention Real Sociedad forward Alexander Isak in transfer discussions, according to The Athletic.

The Lowdown: Player profile

Whilst the 22-year-old seemed to have tailed off from his previous season’s form this year, the Sweden international has still been mentioned regularly amongst scouts from the top clubs across Europe.

The centre-forward scored six goals in La Liga during the 2021/22 campaign, having previously netted 17 league goals the season before.

Incredibly for his age, the Sociedad man has now made over 100 appearances in the Spanish top-flight, adding a further 37 international caps to his name (via Transfermarkt).

The Latest: Isak talks

According to a fresh report by The Athletic, Newcastle's head of recruitment, Steve Nickson, has followed Isak’s progress for a number of years.

The report suggests that the striker’s name continues to be mentioned in transfer discussions at St James’ Park, with the club on the lookout for a forward.

However, just like previous attacking targets Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Ivan Toney, who commanded fees north of £50m, Isak’s current price-tag is proving prohibitive in a potential switch to Tyneside.

The Verdict: Unbelievable signing

During EURO 2020, Isak produced top quality performances on the biggest stage, leading presenter Gary Lineker to sing the youngster’s praises: “Alexander Isak will attract a lot of attention from clubs across Europe. Exceptional talent.”

With a current market valuation of £27m, the Swede could prove to be a more experienced alternative to Hugo Ekitike, but it all depends on if they can whittle Sociedad's demands down closer to that valuation.

Possessing a similar stylistic profile and physical dominance to Dusan Vlahovic and Romelu Lukaku (FBRef), the exciting young Swede could be a fantastic arrival for Eddie Howe’s talented squad if Nickson gets his man.