Barcelona: 5 alternatives to Borussia Dortmund striker Erling Haaland

4. Alexander Isak (Real Sociedad)

Alexander Isak is the fourth alternative to Erling Haaland. The Swedish International arrived at Real Sociedad from Borussia Dortmund in 2019 and has settled well in La Liga. When Barcelona were hunting for an attacker post Ousmane Dembele’s injury last season, the name of Isak was considered before the Catalans eventually signed Martin Braithwaite.

In 25 appearances, Isak has scored 12 goals for Los Txuri-Urdin and has assisted another two. His record in European competitions is underwhelming, with zero goals in eight Europa League appearances.

Isak is popularly known as the ‘New Ibrahimovic’ but has more to his game than just being a target man. The 21-year-old is the most effective when he runs behind the defensive line and dribbles the ball with speed. The Swede is also an effective outlet to hold up the play, drawing attention towards him and in turn freeing up space for others.

His desire to drive with the ball in open spaces leaves the defender with a decision to make, whether to press and make a challenge or to absorb the pressure. Isak plays direct football and it suits the likes of La Real.

However, at Barcelona, the possession-based game requires a striker to be a great passer and also pose the attacking threat in the box at the same time. Isak is young and can adapt if put through rigorous training. The former Dortmund striker has a market value of 30 million euros but his contract at Aneota has a release clause of 70 million euros.