Howe drops clearest update yet on Isak who could join Liverpool
The situation surrounding Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak has taken a dramatic turn, with tensions between player and club spilling out into the public domain. The Swedish international, who has quickly established himself as one of the Premier League’s most lethal forwards since arriving at St James’ Park, is now training alone after growing increasingly frustrated with the club’s handling of his future.
Reports suggest that Liverpool, the reigning Premier League champions, recently lodged a sensational £110 million bid for the 24-year-old – a proposal Newcastle immediately rejected. However, Isak has made no secret of his desire to push for a big-money move, accusing the club of breaking promises in a strongly-worded personal statement earlier this week.
Howe: “It looks like it’s coming to an end”
Ahead of Monday night’s highly anticipated clash against Liverpool, Magpies boss Eddie Howe addressed the situation directly, admitting that Isak’s absence from the squad is another clear indication of how close the saga is to a conclusion.
“He [Isak] won’t be part of the squad this weekend,” Howe told reporters. “The club has to act in the best interests of Newcastle United. It will do that in every situation. It looks like it is coming to an end, or it will come to an end pretty quickly.”
Despite the tension, Howe made it clear he still values Isak immensely and would rather see him back in black and white. “It was a sad moment,” the head coach added, referring to the club’s official statement on the matter. “My preference is these things do not happen publicly. They are better dealt with behind closed doors. But needs must. The club has spoken and justifiably so.
“He’s contracted to us. He’s our player. My wish is that he would be playing on Monday. He won’t be and that’s regrettable. But 100 per cent I want him back in a Newcastle shirt.”
Newcastle hit back at Isak’s claims
Isak’s comments prompted a swift and firm response from Newcastle, who sought to clarify their position. In their statement, the club strongly denied ever making guarantees to the striker about a summer exit.
“We are clear in response that Alex remains under contract and that no commitment has ever been made by a club official that Alex can leave Newcastle United this summer,” the statement read.
“We want to keep our best players, but we also understand players have their own wishes and we listen to their views. As explained to Alex and his representatives, we must always take into consideration the best interests of Newcastle United, the team and our supporters in all decisions, and we have been clear that the conditions of a sale this summer have not transpired.
“We do not foresee those conditions being met. This is a proud football club with proud traditions and we strive to retain our family feel. Alex remains part of our family and will be welcomed back when he is ready to rejoin his teammates.”
What happens next?
The standoff between Newcastle and their star striker has left the club in a precarious position. On one hand, selling Isak would bring in an enormous transfer fee and free up funds for reinvestment. On the other, his departure would strip the Magpies of their most dangerous attacking weapon – just as they seek to build on last season’s top-four challenge.
Liverpool, meanwhile, remain keen to strengthen their frontline following Mohamed Salah’s exit earlier in the summer. Isak’s blend of pace, power, and technical brilliance makes him an ideal fit for Jurgen Klopp’s system, and the Reds are expected to return with an improved offer before the transfer window closes.
For now, Newcastle fans are left in limbo, unsure whether to prepare for life without their talisman or hope for reconciliation. What is certain, however, is that this saga is set to dominate the final days of the transfer window.