Ex-Newcastle striker Papiss Cisse says he is hopeful that Alexander Isak will remain at St James’ Park beyond the end of the season.

The Swedish international has been linked with a move to Arsenal in recent weeks but, speaking about the forward’s future, Cisse said the player should not consider a transfer as he is enjoying playing for the Magpies:

“He’s a proper striker. He’s good with the ball and he moves very well. He can be a big striker and I hope the club try to keep him. He’s finding space in the club and on the pitch. He looks happy there.”

“If a striker is doing this on the pitch and they’re scoring, this guy is happy where he is now. I would say to him to continue what you are doing. He can become a big striker because he has everything.”

Isak has been in sensational form

The 24-year-old’s brace against Tottenham during the 4-0 victory at the weekend took his total to 21 in all competitions this campaign.

Isak has now hit the back of the net 10 more times than he did during his first year at Newcastle, although he did play fewer matches last season due to injury.

Newcastle are under pressure to sell players

While they would dearly love to keep hold of Isak, the Magpies do have specific financial obligations they must adhere to. It is believed the club will have to make sales in order to stay within the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules. If they don’t comply, Newcastle would be at risk of a points deduction.

Isak is one of the club’s most saleable assets so rumours about a transfer are likely to persist into the summer. Like Cisse, fans will be hoping that the striker stays in the North East.

You can watch the documentary – Newcastle United: The Road Back To Europe on Shots! TV here