Mikel Arteta warned to avoid stunning £100m transfer and sign 21-year-old instead

Emmanuel Petit has advised Mikel Arteta to steer clear of Newcastle's Alexander Isak, despite comparisons toThierry Henry, and instead go for the 'special' talent of Nico Williams.

Isak, who is in his second season with Newcastle, has been making waves in the Premier League. The 24-year-old Swedish striker has netted an impressive 15 goals in 23 league matches this season, contributing to a total of 29 since his record £63million move to St James' Park.

Eddie Howe likened Isak to Arsenal legend Henry after a particularly impressive dribble against Everton last season, sparking interest from the Gunners. Despite Newcastle's stance that Isak isn't for sale, the ex-Real Sociedad player hasn't dismissed the idea of a move.

Rumours suggest a hefty £100m price tag is being floated, with both Arsenal and Spurs reportedly keen on the forward. Yet Petit, the former Arsenal midfielder, has expressed his reservations to Genting Casino: "£100m for Alexander Isak? Come on… Spending that amount of money on someone like Declan Rice is understandable because it's guaranteed Rice was going to do well and put in the effort. I'm not so sure about Isak.

«I don't think it would be a good decision by Arsenal to buy Isak for a big price. Arsenal's transfer policy is very good, and they should keep their policy rather than fund clubs like Chelsea, Newcastle or those kinds of clubs.

»Arsenal shouldn't splash their money like that. Isak would be a good addition to the squad, but there are players outside of England that could have the same impact."

The ex-France star suggests Arsenal should cast their gaze towards La Liga for their next big signing. Petit has pinpointed Athletic Bilbao's Nico Williams as the perfect summer acquisition for the Gunners.

V