UPDATE: In a developing situation at Newcastle United, manager Eddie Howe has firmly denied claims that he promised Alexander Isak a transfer this summer. Amidst swirling rumors of a potential move to Liverpool, Howe emphasized he never guarantees players a departure, stating, “Absolutely not. I never make any promises regarding transfers.”
Despite Howe’s denial, Newcastle’s ongoing efforts to secure £70 million striker Nick Woltemade from Stuttgart have cleared the way for Liverpool to make a staggering bid of approximately £130 million for Isak. This deal could finally conclude Liverpool’s long-term pursuit of the Swedish international, who has been absent from training and matches, expressing dissatisfaction with the club.
Just last week, Newcastle’s executives seemed resolute in keeping Isak, but that position has shifted dramatically. On Monday, minority owner Jamie Reuben met with representatives from the club’s majority stakeholders, the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund, at Isak’s home in Northumberland. However, Isak reportedly resisted their attempts to negotiate a resolution or accept a lucrative new contract.
Howe acknowledged the reality that Isak’s apparent determination to leave may make a transfer beneficial for all parties. “Of course I would have a preference for him to stay,” Howe remarked, “but you have to take everything else into account.”
The manager has not spoken to Isak in nearly two weeks, particularly since the striker’s emotional Instagram post criticizing the club for “broken promises.” Howe is now focused on potential new signings, including Yoane Wissa from Brentford and Jørgen Strand Larsen from Wolves, to enhance the squad’s attacking options.
Compounding the urgency, Newcastle is facing a challenging match against Leeds this Saturday without key players such as Anthony Gordon, who is suspended, and Joelinton, who is injured. Sandro Tonali is also battling a shoulder issue, with only a slim chance of featuring in the game.
Despite the turmoil surrounding Isak, Howe noted that the squad’s morale has improved significantly in the striker’s absence. “The squad dynamic is very strong at the moment,” he stated, indicating a positive shift after a tumultuous summer.
As the transfer window approaches its conclusion, all eyes will be on Newcastle and Liverpool, with the potential for a record-breaking transfer to unfold. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see if Isak’s future will be decided before the deadline, with implications for both clubs hanging in the balance.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
