Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has admitted there are “things going on behind the scenes” amid mounting speculation over the future of star striker Alexander Isak, who is reportedly attracting interest from Liverpool.
Isak, 25, did not travel with the Magpies squad to Singapore on Thursday for pre-season friendlies, with the club citing a thigh injury.
However, sources indicate the Sweden international is exploring a possible move away from St James’ Park — with Liverpool said to be keen, despite recently signing Eintracht Frankfurt forward Hugo Ekitike in a £69 million deal.
Speaking ahead of Newcastle’s friendly clash against Arsenal on Sunday, Howe confirmed that he remains hopeful Isak will remain at the club but stressed that “whatever happens has to be right for Newcastle.”
“He will be aware he is in the news every day, and I’m sure that is not easy,” said Howe. “We do share a good relationship. He has been magnificent for us since he joined. He’s very popular in the dressing room. We would love him to continue his journey at Newcastle.”
Isak, who signed from Real Sociedad in 2022 for £60 million, was one of Newcastle’s top performers last season — netting 27 goals in 42 appearances across all competitions. He is contracted with the club until June 2028.
While Howe acknowledged that Isak’s thigh injury was initially thought to be minor, he revealed the forward “didn’t feel right” during training after last weekend’s 4-0 loss to Celtic.
“Hopefully he’ll be back soon and playing in the black and white shirt. That’s what we all want to see,” he added.
On whether he has spoken to the Newcastle board about Isak’s potential departure, Howe said no direct talks have taken place yet, but any decisions would be discussed “at a later date.”
“I said after the Celtic game I certainly hope he stays and I said I was confident he would stay,” said Howe. “I don’t see anything that will change that opinion of mine at the moment – but it’s football, and who knows what the future may bring?”
Newcastle’s ambitions for the coming season remain high, and Howe was clear the club is not under pressure to sell.
“We are in a very strong position financially. We are determined to be successful, be ambitious. We’ve got a great season ahead of us and need to add to the squad and continue to improve.”
