Alan Shearer believes Premier League striker who Arsenal failed to sign this summer could challenge for Golden Boot this season

Newcastle United great Alan Shearer has backed Alexander Isak, who was reportedly linked with Arsenal ahead of the 2024-25 campaign, to win the Premier League Golden Boot this season.

Isak, 24, emerged as a transfer target for the Gunners after relishing a fine 2023-24 season for the Magpies. He netted 25 goals, including 21 goals in the league, in 40 overall appearances for his club last season.

However, Isak is expected to remain at Newcastle United this summer. Arsenal, on the other hand, are unlikely to sign a new striker despite being linked with a host of players, including Napoli's Victor Osimhen.

Speaking to Mirror, Shearer shared his two cents on Isak staying at the Magpies and also heaped praise on the right-footed striker. He opined:

"It was great news when we realised that he was never going to be sold. He's a modern day forward if you like, rather than a centre-forward. The way he stops and then goes again, it makes it very difficult for defenders. I would have him as an outside bet really of challenging for the Golden Boot this season if he can stay fit."

Last season, the AIK youth product finished third behind Cole Palmer (22) and Erling Haaland (27) in the race for the league's Golden Boot.

Earlier this year, Isak was queried if he is keen to continue playing for Eddie Howe's outfit. The ex-Borussia Dortmund man said (h/t Mirror):

"Yeah, of course I want to be here in the future. I came here for the project, I absolutely love playing here, I really feel at home. I want to finish this season in a good way for me and the team. I love playing here."

Since arriving from Real Sociedad in a £63 million switch in 2022, Isak has scored 35 goals and provided six assists in 68 games for his club.

Arsenal reject bid for 25-year-old attacker

According to The Athletic, Arsenal have rejected an opening bid of £25 million including potential add-ons for Eddie Nketiah from Nottingham Forest. They are open to offloading their striker for around £35 million.

Nketiah, who has also reportedly attracted interest from Crystal Palace and Everton, is currently Arsenal's third-choice number nine. The 25-year-old is believed to be aiming to secure a move away from his club.

So far, Nketiah has found the back of the net 38 times and registered seven assists in 168 overall outings, including 70 starts, for Arsenal.