Barcelona won’t stop at Rashford and opens negotiations to sign Newcastle’s Isak

Barcelona have secured the signing of Marcus Rashford from Manchester United, but the club’s transfer activity won’t stop there. According to El Nacional, the Catalan giants have now initiated negotiations to land Newcastle striker Alexander Isak in a long-term strategy to reshape their attacking line.

Rashford, 27, joins Barça after spending the previous season on loan at Aston Villa, where he failed to convince Erik ten Hag of his place at Old Trafford. He becomes the latest reinforcement under Joan Laporta’s leadership as the club looks to rejuvenate its forward line.

Long-Term Strategy: Isak Targeted for Post-Lewandowski Era

With Robert Lewandowski expected to leave in 2026, Barcelona are planning ahead. The club has opened talks to sign Isak, a prolific Swedish international currently under contract with Newcastle until 2028. The striker would reportedly join in 2026, with the estimated transfer fee around €80 million.

While Newcastle are believed to be demanding nearly double that amount for an immediate transfer, the scenario could shift if the deal is structured for a future arrival, allowing Barcelona more financial flexibility. The player is also being tracked by Al-Hilal, but Isak reportedly prefers to remain in European football.

Isak: Proven in Spain, Thriving in England

Alexander Isak, 27, is no stranger to La Liga, having played three successful seasons with Real Sociedad before moving to Newcastle in 2022. His previous experience in Spanish football could ease the transition, should the transfer materialize.

In the 2024/25 season, Isak recorded 27 goals and six assists in 42 appearances, solidifying his reputation as one of the Premier League’s top strikers. His consistent performances have made him Newcastle’s leading attacking figure.

The Swedish striker began his professional career at AIK in Sweden and has since played for Borussia Dortmund, Willem II, Real Sociedad, and now Newcastle United.

Haaland No Longer on the Radar

Barcelona’s pursuit of Isak also signals a shift in the club’s ambitions regarding Erling Haaland. Once a long-standing target, the Manchester City star remains financially out of reach, with a price tag exceeding €200 million. By contrast, Isak offers a more attainable yet high-quality option for the Blaugrana.

As Barcelona continue to monitor the market, Isak is emerging as their preferred long-term successor to Lewandowski capable, proven, and financially viable.