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Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has explained why Liverpool-linked Alexander Isak was absent in the Magpies’ pre-season game on Saturday.

Newcastle began pre-season games with a home match against Scottish Premiership side Celtic at the weekend.

Isak, who has been linked with a summer move to Anfield was conspicuously absent as Newcastle were beaten 4-0 by Brendan Rodgers’ side.

Liverpool had identified the Swedish striker as the ideal candidate for the ‘troubled’ No.

9 position at Anfield.

Arne Slot and the recruitment staff, it was said, had made him their primary target and the club were willing to break the British transfer record for the second time this summer to land the 25-year-old.

The offer on ground was £120 million, but it was said that Newcastle were obstinate about selling and had placed an unassailable £150 million price-tag on him.

This has led Liverpool to turn their attention to their pursuit of Hugo Ekitike.

The club have already made two bids for the French forward, with their latest bid thought to be in the region of €90 million.

With Liverpool seemingly cooling their interest in Isak, Newcastle have now reportedly opened  the door for him to move to Saudi Arabia.

Several reports that emerged on Friday, claimed that Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal are keen on signing Isak, and that the Swede would be open to a move.

Amid the uncertainty and intriguing stories surrounding his future, Isak was absent in Newcastle’s first pre-season game.

His absence from starting lineup and squad led to several speculations, including a possible injury to the striker.

However, Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has provided clarity on his absence, revealing that he personally asked Isak to go home.

“I think it’s difficult for me to give 100% clarity on any player,” said Howe after the disappointing loss at Celtic Park.

“I’d never sit here and do that because it’s football and you never know what can happen.

“But Alex is happy at Newcastle.

He loves the players he plays with, the staff, the team and I’ve never had any issue with him.

“I’m confident he’s going to be here at the start of the season.”

Howe eventually clarified that Isak will be part of the club’s upcoming pre-season tour to Asia.

“Yeah, absolutely.

At this moment in time, I expect him to come,” Howe added when asked if the Swede will travel with the squad to Singapore.

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