Newcastle chasing “one of the best 9s in the world”, he could even be better than Isak
The Magpies’ search for attacking reinforcements has taken another twist as RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Šeško appears destined for Manchester United, leaving Eddie Howe’s side to evaluate alternative options should Alexander Isak depart.
With Liverpool reportedly preparing an improved bid for the Swedish striker after their initial £110 million offer was rejected, Newcastle’s recruitment team must prepare for all eventualities in what’s becoming an increasingly complex transfer puzzle.
Two names have emerged as prime candidates to fill the potential void left by Isak: Brentford’s Yoane Wissa and Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins.
The Congolese forward represents a more economical option, with reports suggesting Newcastle could secure his services for significantly less than the £60 million Villa would demand for their English international.
Comparative Analysis of Potential Isak Replacements
| Metric (per 90) | Ollie Watkins | Alexander Isak |
|---|---|---|
| Goals + Assists | 0.83 | 0.95 |
| Goals per SOT | 0.39 | 0.46 |
| Expected Goals (xG) | 0.53 | 0.66 |
| Goal-Creating Actions | 0.42 | 0.46 |
| Ball Recoveries | 1.49 | 1.80 |
Watkins presents an intriguing proposition for several reasons. The 29-year-old boasts remarkable durability – having missed just three games through injury in his entire career compared to Isak’s 39 absences during his Newcastle tenure.
His all-round contribution is equally impressive, with last season’s 19 goals and 15 assists demonstrating his ability to both finish chances and create opportunities for teammates.
England manager Gareth Southgate’s continued faith in Watkins, including his crucial Euro 2024 semi-final goal against the Netherlands, further underscores his quality at the highest level.
Statistician Statman Dave’s assessment of Watkins as “one of the best number nines in the world” might seem hyperbolic, but the numbers support his claim.
The Torquay-born striker has amassed 75 Premier League goals and 36 assists in 184 appearances – a record that compares favorably with most elite forwards.
His 2023/24 campaign was particularly outstanding, with his 34 goal involvements (19 goals, 15 assists) showcasing his evolving game under Unai Emery’s guidance.
Wissa offers a different profile – less proven but potentially more dynamic. The DR Congo international’s versatility to play across the frontline could appeal to Howe’s tactical flexibility, though his output (12 Premier League goals last season) falls short of Watkins’ consistent numbers.
Reports suggesting Newcastle view the pair as complementary rather than alternatives hint at an ambitious plan to potentially deploy both in a revamped attacking system.
Financially, selling Isak for £110+ million and reinvesting £60 million in Watkins (plus a smaller sum for Wissa) could represent smart business. The £50+ million difference would help address other squad needs while maintaining attacking quality.
Watkins’ homegrown status adds further value for Premier League squad registration purposes.
However, replacing Isak’s unique qualities won’t be straightforward. The Swedish striker’s 0.95 goal contributions per 90 minutes last season slightly edged Watkins’ output, and his superior xG figures suggest more potent chance conversion.
Jamie Carragher’s assessment of Isak as “the best striker in the Premier League right now” reflects how highly he’s regarded despite his injury concerns.
As the transfer window enters its decisive phase, Newcastle’s hierarchy face critical decisions. Do they resist all offers for Isak despite the financial temptation?
Should they pursue Watkins as a like-for-like replacement? Or might a Wissa acquisition represent better value, allowing funds to strengthen elsewhere? The answers to these questions could define their season before a ball is kicked.
One certainty emerges from the data – Watkins’ consistency and availability make him arguably the safest bet among available options.
While he may not replicate Isak’s occasional moments of individual brilliance, his reliable output and durability could prove equally valuable over a grueling Premier League campaign.
For a Newcastle side looking to establish themselves as consistent top-four challengers, that reliability might be worth every penny of Villa’s £60 million asking price.