Newcastle, August 3 – Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has broken his silence on the uncertainty surrounding star striker Alexander Isak, acknowledging the situation is “far from ideal” amid growing transfer speculation.
The 25-year-old Sweden international has been at the centre of intense rumours following a reported £110 million bid from Liverpool, which Newcastle rejected on Friday. The Reds have ramped up their search for attacking reinforcements after recently edging out the Magpies for Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike.
Isak, who joined Newcastle in 2022 and has since become a key figure under Howe, was notably absent from the club’s pre-season tour of Asia. The club attributed his omission to a “minor thigh injury,” but sources close to the player suggest he is unhappy with his current situation at St. James’ Park.
“I don’t really know what is going to happen next,” Howe admitted during a press briefing. “The situation is far from ideal and it is quite complex.”
The uncertainty surrounding Isak’s future comes at a critical time for Newcastle, who are looking to regroup after a mixed 2024/25 campaign and return to Champions League contention.
Despite the distraction, the club continues to be active in the transfer market. On Saturday, they confirmed the signing of Southampton goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale on a season-long loan deal, which includes an option to buy. Ramsdale will provide competition for Nick Pope, who is working his way back from a long-term injury.
Meanwhile, reports suggest Newcastle have launched a £65.4 million bid for highly rated RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko as they prepare for a possible reshuffle in the attacking department. The Slovenian international has been on the radar of several top European clubs and could be viewed as a direct replacement should Isak leave.
With the Premier League season fast approaching, Howe will be hoping to resolve the Isak saga quickly—either by reaffirming the striker’s commitment or moving decisively to secure reinforcements.