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Liverpool-linked Alexander Isak has yet to play for Newcastle United yet during pre-season(Image: Anadolu via Getty Images)

Newcastle United head coach Eddie Howe has confirmed the club have received "no formal approach" for Alexander Isak this summer transfer window.

Reports emerged earlier this week claiming Liverpool had approached their Premier League rivals.

However, as the ECHO reported on Tuesday, no one at the club contacted anyone at Newcastle.



Isak, meanwhile, was not involved at all for Newcastle in their 4-0 defeat to Celtic, with Howe explaining the player's absence afterwards.

"It was my decision," the Newcastle's head coach clarified.

"I decided to send him home due to the speculation around him.

"The last thing he wanted is to be sat in the stand watching, that wasn't fair to him." Howe also acknowledged they are managing the player's minutes and opted to avoid risking the striker.

Speaking about Isak and Joelinton, who also did not play, Howe said: "Both players are fit, but we just felt they were not ready to play.

"Everybody, through pre-season, goes through different challenges.

"Joe is back from a long injury, so we need to make sure when he is introduced, he is ready.

"Alex has trained this week and is fine, but we did not want to take the risk." Howe also addressed whether he could guarantee Isak will remain a Newcastle player.

"It is difficult for me to sit here and give 100% clarity on any player.

All I can say is that Alex is happy at Newcastle; he loves the players and staff, the team.

"I have never had any issue with him other than seeing him express his talent and express himself.
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