Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak has informed the club that he wants to explore his options during this transfer window, sources confirm. The Swedish forward, who missed Newcastle’s recent 4-0 pre-season defeat to Celtic, has not submitted an official transfer request but is reportedly unsettled amid interest from Liverpool.
Isak Left Out of Newcastle’s Asia Tour
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe revealed that Isak was sent home before the Celtic match due to "speculation" and a minor thigh injury, which also ruled him out of the club’s pre-season tour to Singapore.
“It was my decision,” said Howe. “The last thing he wanted is to be sat in the stands watching. That wasn’t fair to him. But I’m confident he will be a Newcastle player come the end of the window.”
Despite Howe’s confidence, the situation remains tense. Newcastle officials stated that Isak’s exclusion was solely for injury reasons. However, it’s understood the transfer speculation has also played a key role.
Liverpool Approach — Ekitike Signed Instead
Liverpool reportedly made an informal approach for Isak last week, exploring the possibility of signing the 24-year-old. However, they later moved quickly to sign Hugo Ekitike for £79 million from Frankfurt. Even though Liverpool secured Ekitike, sources say the club still admires Isak and could revisit the deal if Newcastle are willing to sell.
Newcastle are believed to value Isak at a minimum of £150 million, making any transfer difficult unless a club is ready to pay top dollar.
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Contract Talks Stalled – Isak Wants Higher Wages
Newcastle have held contract extension talks with Isak in recent months, but no agreement has been reached. The striker reportedly feels he should be paid similarly to the league’s top strikers, a sentiment strengthened by growing transfer interest.
“Isak is one of the best in the Premier League. If he moves, he wants top-tier wages,” reportsSky Sports’ Keith Downie.
So far, Newcastle have not matched those expectations, and without a new deal in place, Isak’s future remains uncertain.
Yoane Wissa Targeted as Possible Replacement
Amid the Isak drama, Newcastle are in advanced talks with Brentford over forward Yoane Wissa. Initially seen as a backup option to Isak, Wissa could now become first-choice if Isak leaves.
Brentford, however, are reluctant to sell after losing Bryan Mbeumo to Manchester United for £71 million. As a result, Brentford have increased Wissa’s price to £40 million, while Newcastle were hoping to pay closer to £35 million.
Wissa and Mbeumo scored 39 goals combined last season, making Wissa a valuable asset for Brentford.
Analysis: What Should Newcastle Do Next?
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe is under serious pressure. With no sporting director or CEO, he has taken a hands-on role in summer transfers, but so far missed out on key targets like Liam Delap, Joao Pedro, and Dean Huijsen.
Now, the club faces a tough decision:
- Offer Isak a pay rise to stay.
- Sell him for £150 million if an offer arrives.
- Convince him to stay and refocus ahead of a crucial Champions League season.
“This is a delicate situation. Isak’s head has been turned, and Newcastle must act fast,” says Downie.
Isak Future Unclear — Newcastle Fans Anxious
Alexander Isak has been Newcastle’s star striker, and losing him would be a major blow ahead of the 2025/26 season. While Eddie Howe remains confident, fans are worried as the speculation grows, and Isak’s absence from the Asia tour raises more questions.
Newcastle’s next steps — either offering Isak a lucrative new deal or finding a suitable replacement like Wissa — could define their season.
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