Eddie Howe says he is "confident" Alexander Isak will still be a Newcastle player at the end of the transfer window but says he sent the striker home ahead of the friendly loss to Celtic because of the focus on the Swede's future.

Newcastle made it clear Isak was not for sale this week when Liverpool stepped up their interest in the striker.

The Magpies value Isak, who scored 23 Premier League goals last season, at £150m at least.

Arsenal have been another club eyeing Isak this summer but they are now closing in on a deal for Sporting's Viktor Gyokeres.

Howe’s dilemma as Newcastle’s Saudi owners can’t ignore case to sell Isak	Liverpool quietly confident about Isak while making contact for £85m star: Wednesday’s Liverpool transfer round-up	Alexander Isak dropped from Newcastle squad due to Liverpool transfer links

"It was my decision," said Howe about sending Isak home.

The striker wasn't set to play in the game - which turned out to be a 4-0 thrashing by Celtic - because Newcastle are managing his minutes at this early stage of pre-season.

"He travelled to Glasgow with us but I decided to send him home due to the speculation around him.

"The last thing he wanted was to be sat in the stand watching - that wasn't fair to him.

But I'm confident he will be a Newcastle player come the end of the window."

Analysis: Newcastle loss shows need for signings.

Anthony Elanga came on against Celtic to make his first appearance for Newcastle

I know Celtic are ahead in terms of pre-season preparation - they've been back a couple of weeks - but there has been a gulf between the teams.

"Yes, Newcastle are missing the likes of Isak, Joelinton, Tino Livramento and Lewis Hall, but Celtic have been streets ahead.

"Newcastle fans will be thinking that they need to add more signings - they've only added Elanga so far this summer but on this showing, they'll need a few more."

More to follow…


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