Arsenal and Newcastle United are thought to be keen on discussing January deals for Real Madrid playmaker Isco, with talks coming ‘very soon’.
Eurosport claim that both Arsenal and Newcastle are interested in talking about a potential move for Isco.
Real Betis and Sevilla are in the same boat, seeking talks with Real Madrid as the January transfer window approaches.
Isco is out of contract at the end of the season and Real seem willing to let him go earlier than planned.
Talks are starting soon, with Isco – branded ‘magic’ for a while – no doubt desperate to get his career back on track.
Arsenal and Newcastle may be better off avoiding Isco
It does seem surprising that Arsenal are seemingly interested in the 29-year-old.
Mikel Arteta has been leading a youth movement at Arsenal. The likes of Emile Smith Rowe and Martin Odegaard can play in that number 10 role, and you would even trust Bukayo Saka there if needed.
What Arsenal can’t really afford to do is start bringing in players on big wages who are entering their 30’s.
That perfectly describes Isco. At his best, Isco is a quality player, an outstanding playmaker and a joy to watch, but when was the last time that happened?
Arsenal cannot revert to this kind of deal. Already lumped with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s wages, Isco just doesn’t make sense for the Gunners.
As for Newcastle, it’s a little trickier. Isco would immediately bring more creativity and guile to the Newcastle side as they look to stay in the Premier League.
Yet the long-term concerns would be the same; a player entering their 30’s whilst taking up huge wages.
PIF’s investment means Newcastle may not feel that hit quite so hard, but it’s still a real worry.
Of the two, Isco makes a little more sense for Newcastle, but he may be better off joining Betis or Sevilla.
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