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Swedish striker Alexander Isak has expressed his desire to leave Newcastle United this summer, sparking interest from Liverpool and Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal. Isak, 25, has handed in a formal transfer request after missing Newcastle's pre-season tour of East Asia, initially citing a thigh injury. The forward, who joined Newcastle for £63 million from Real Sociedad in August 2022, still has three years remaining on his contract at St James' Park. Newcastle had planned to open talks over a contract extension but are now faced with his intention to explore other opportunities. Although the club is reluctant to sell, reports suggest that a bid around £150 million could change Newcastle’s stance.

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe and the club have so far maintained that Isak is not for sale, with Howe expressing confidence that the striker would stay this summer. However, Isak’s omission from the squad for the tour and the recent defeat against Celtic, where Howe opted not to play him due to the speculation around his future, underline the tense situation. Despite Liverpool’s initial interest, their focus shifted to signing Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitike after failing to secure progress with Isak. Liverpool completed the Ekitike deal recently, reportedly worth £69 million plus add-ons.

Isak’s frustration has been linked to Liverpool's approach, as his hoped-for move there seemed blocked when Ekitike was signed instead. Analysts suggest Isak, having scored 62 goals in three years for Newcastle and contributing significantly to their recent cup success, feels ready for a new challenge at a club with greater chances of winning the Premier League. With the upcoming Premier League season’s first home game for Newcastle being against Liverpool, attention will focus on where Isak will be playing.

Newcastle insist that any sale would require a record-breaking fee near £150 million, making Isak’s future uncertain. The situation is expected to develop during the summer transfer window as both player and club consider their options.

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