Newcastle United’s manager, Eddie Howe, has withdrawn striker Alexander Isak from the club’s pre-season friendly against Celtic due to ongoing speculation surrounding his potential transfer to Liverpool. The 25-year-old Sweden international’s future remains uncertain amid Liverpool’s reported interest and offer of £120 million, which Newcastle have rejected, holding firm to a £150 million valuation. This figure would set a new British transfer record if met.

Howe explained that the decision to send Isak home was made to avoid the striker sitting on the bench amid intense media scrutiny, stating, "The last thing he wanted is to be sat in the stand watching, that wasn’t fair to him." Despite the situation, Howe expressed confidence that Isak would remain a Newcastle player at the start of the coming season, acknowledging it was difficult to provide absolute clarity in the current climate.

Newcastle's owners are determined to keep Isak, valuing him highly not only for his talent but also for his role in the team’s Champions League ambitions. Meanwhile, Liverpool appear to have shifted some of their focus towards signing Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitike, although they continue to pursue Isak. Newcastle have also been actively pursuing Ekitike to bolster their attack in support of Isak.

Howe emphasized the club’s recognition of Isak’s quality and their desire to retain him, remarking, “Your top players are so hard to find. They are so hard to recruit and develop, and make them into those players. When you have them, you need to treasure them. We are desperate to keep him as part of our team.”

Eddie Howe breaks silence on Alexander Isak to Liverpool with telling statement	Eddie Howe confident Alexander Isak will stay at Newcastle despite missing friendly	Eddie Howe makes statement on Alexander Isak future after sending Liverpool target home from pre-season match

While Howe confirmed Isak's happiness at Newcastle and his good relationship with teammates and staff, he also remained pragmatic about the uncertainty surrounding transfers in football, acknowledging that situations can evolve rapidly.


PP
For more news relating to Newcastle United, visit our sister site NUFC Latest Live.