Newcastle United’s head coach Eddie Howe has been spotted looking particularly frustrated during Premier League matches as he addresses the swirling speculation surrounding Alexander Isak’s future at St James’ Park. Amidst the backdrop of burgeoning interest from Liverpool, Howe is grappling with the prospect of losing one of his star players.
Initially, Isak’s absence from Newcastle’s pre-season tour in Asia was attributed to a nagging thigh injury. However, the narrative has shifted, with whispers suggesting that Isak is keen to ‘explore’ transfer opportunities in this summer’s window. The prolific striker, who netted an impressive 27 goals in 42 outings last season, has no shortage of admirers, but it’s Liverpool who appear to be in pole position to secure his services.
Despite the seasoned clubs circling, reports indicate that Isak’s heart is firmly set on a move to Liverpool this summer. With Jurgen Klopp having already splashed £260m on new recruits during this transfer window, questions linger over whether the Reds can craft a deal that lures Isak, potentially financed by exits for the likes of Darwin Nunez, Luis Diaz or Harvey Elliott.
In a recent press engagement ahead of Newcastle’s friendly against Arsenal, Howe confronted the topic head-on. He revealed that although he remains hopeful Isak will remain a Magpie, there are currently “no talks taking place” about extending the Swede’s contract, which runs until 2028.
“He is now in Newcastle getting his injury assessed. Hopefully, he will be back soon and playing in the black and white shirt, that’s what we want to see,” Howe remarked, maintaining an optimistic tone. “Conversations that happen between Alex and ourselves and Alex and the club will stay private.”
Howe emphasized the esteem in which Isak is held in the dressing room and his desire for the striker to continue his journey at Newcastle. Yet, as he candidly admitted, “It’s football, who knows what the future will bring.”
Newcastle’s transfer window woes are not isolated to Isak, as they also recently missed out on signing James Trafford. Howe conceded the transfer market has been “challenging,” with inflated prices and limited player availability.
“We are actively in the market, we are looking. We need to do business and need to bring players in,” Howe added. “With all the games we will have, we need the options and depth. It’s a totally different campaign in the Champions League.”
The Magpies’ manager is poised to remain relentless in his pursuit of fresh talent, vowing not to relent until the transfer window slams shut.
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