Arsenal cannot afford the British record transfer fee it would take to sign Alexander Isak from Newcastle this summer.
Sources say it is highly unlikely that owner Stan Kroenke will approve a move for the 25-year-old, focusing for now on expenses.
We understand the Gunners will listen to offers for striker Gabriel Jesus at the end of the season and Oleksandr Zinchenko could leave this month. Thomas Partey's £150,000-a-week salary will also be scrapped when his contract expires in June.
While Arsenal have no concerns about meeting profitability and sustainability standards, they still have to respect them. And, for now, that means sources close to the club are downplaying Isak's move.
Manager Mikel Arteta is said to be a big admirer of the 25-year-old and former sporting director Edu, who left the club in November, was also an admirer. Isak's team are believed to be aware of Arsenal's interest.
His man-of-the-match performance and 15th goal of the season during Newcastle's 2-0 Carabao Cup semi-final win over Arsenal this week made it clear how perfect a fit he would be for the Gunners.
Mail Sport understands Arsenal cannot afford to sign Newcastle star Alexander Isak
Mikel Arteta's men want to reinforce their attacking options in the transfer market
But unless there is a significant departure from Emirates Stadium, we were told not to expect an offer this summer.
Newcastle sources insist there is no asking price for a player they want to keep at St James' Park, but a fee in excess of the British record £115m Chelsea paid for Moisés Caicedo would almost certainly be needed if he were to out.
Isak's situation on Tyneside is not simple. He is already the club's highest-earning player and is under contract until 2028. However, there is no doubt that a player of his caliber could command a higher salary elsewhere.
For now, Newcastle cannot improve his contract status due to the PSR, but a return to the Champions League would likely change that stance come the summer. It would also provide the player with the platform of the top European competition he desires.
With Eddie Howe's side currently fifth in the Premier League after five consecutive wins and a second leg against Arsenal away from the Carabao Cup final, the chances of Isak staying at Newcastle increase by the day, especially as the Main suitor, Arsenal, are not in a position to afford it as it is.