Newcastle Boss Breaks Silence Over Wantaway Liverpool Target Alexander Amid Big-Money Offer from Saudi

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has expressed his hope that striker Alexander Isak will remain with the club, but acknowledged uncertainty surrounding the player's future.

Isak has reportedly informed Newcastle of his desire to explore other options this summer.

Absent from Newcastle's pre-season tour of Singapore due to both a minor thigh injury and his desire to assess his options, Isak's situation has prompted speculation about a potential move.

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While no formal transfer request has been submitted, conversations regarding a new contract at Newcastle have yet to yield an agreement.

The Swedish international has three years remaining on his current deal, with Newcastle placing a £150m valuation on him. Liverpool, despite recently acquiring Hugo Ekitike, are believed to retain their interest in Isak.

Speaking ahead of Newcastle's pre-season friendly against Arsenal, Howe stated, as quoted by Sky Sports, "He's currently in Newcastle having his injury assessed. We hope he'll be back soon, playing in the black and white shirt. That's what we want to see."

Howe emphasized the privacy surrounding discussions between the club, Isak, and his representatives, adding, "He's very popular in the dressing room, and we'd love him to continue his journey at Newcastle." While acknowledging the possibility of future contract talks, Howe admitted, "It's football, who knows what the future will bring?"

Howe dismissed concerns about Isak's situation becoming a distraction, stating, "I don't think we're distracted. We're here and we're focused."

He highlighted the club's need to make the right decision for Newcastle, emphasizing their strong financial position and commitment to success. Howe stressed the importance of making sound decisions to improve the squad, regardless of Isak's ultimate decision.

While Isak's future remains unresolved, Newcastle continue their search for reinforcements. Howe acknowledged the difficulties of the current transfer market, citing rising prices and a limited pool of available players.

Despite securing Anthony Elanga from Nottingham Forest for £55m, Newcastle missed out on Ekitike to Liverpool and appear set to lose goalkeeper target James Trafford to Manchester City.

Howe commented on the transfer window's challenges, stating, "It's challenging for us. We have multiple players we're looking at across multiple positions." He emphasized the need for squad depth, particularly with the added demands of Champions League football. Howe reassured fans, saying, "We won't stop until the window shuts."