“GREAT NEWS”‘-Alan Shearer expresses delighted after learning ‘modern day’ star is staying at Newcastle this summer
Newcastle United have successfully resisted attempts from other clubs to lure away their key players this summer, securing their core talent amidst growing interest from top Premier League sides.
While the Tyneside club’s transfer activities may not have made headlines, the priority for manager Eddie Howe was clear: maintaining the squad’s cohesion rather than making numerous additions. In recent seasons, Newcastle’s impressive performances have put several of their stars on the radar of the Premier League’s ‘Big Six,’ with the likes of Bruno Guimaraes, Anthony Gordon, and Alexander Isak attracting significant attention.
Bruno Guimaraes was heavily linked with a move to Manchester City, one of the most successful clubs in recent years, while Liverpool were rumored to be plotting a surprise bid for Anthony Gordon. Meanwhile, Alexander Isak, the Swedish forward who made waves last season with an impressive tally of 25 goals across all competitions, caught the eye of Arsenal.
Despite the buzz surrounding these players, Newcastle has managed to hold onto them. Arsenal’s interest in Isak, in particular, has cooled off, allowing the striker to remain at St James’ Park—much to the delight of Newcastle legend Alan Shearer. The former Magpies’ striker expressed his satisfaction with the club’s ability to retain Isak, viewing it as a victory almost as significant as making a major signing.
Isak, who was acquired for a club-record fee of £63 million in 2022, is rapidly proving his worth. Shearer, speaking to *The Mirror*, shared his excitement about the forward’s potential, stating, “It was great news when we realised that he was never going to be sold. He’s a modern-day forward if you like, rather than a traditional centre forward. The way he stops and then goes again, it makes it very difficult for defenders. I would have him as an outside bet for challenging for the Golden Boot this season if he can stay fit.”
The new season has already seen Isak make a strong impact, delivering an assist for Joelinton in Newcastle’s Premier League opener against Southampton. This early contribution has set the stage for what could be a standout season for the 24-year-old.
However, Isak faces stiff competition in the race for the Premier League Golden Boot, notably from Erling Haaland, who has already found the net for Manchester City against Chelsea. Shearer believes that if Isak can maintain his fitness, he has the potential to rival Haaland this season. Isak will be eager to open his goalscoring account in Newcastle’s upcoming match against Bournemouth.
In the background, Newcastle fans remain optimistic about potential future signings, with positive updates emerging about the club’s pursuit of central defender Marc Guehi, even after Joachim Andersen’s departure from Crystal Palace. The combination of retaining their star players and making strategic additions could make Newcastle a formidable force in the Premier League this season.