Eddie Howe admits Newcastle can’t force Alexander Isak to stay…
Alexander Isak can’t be forced to stay at Newcastle, Eddie Howe has admitted, while suggesting he will miss their Premier League opener against Aston Villa.
The situation is clear: Isak wants a move to Liverpool; Liverpool have the money; Newcastle need a replacement.
At the moment, that third part is proving a problem as the Magpies struggle to find a player anywhere near the level of their want-away Swede.
However, even if they don’t sign a suitable striker, manager Howe has admitted it could be difficult to keep Isak.
Asked if Newcastle can tell their No. 14 he has to stay, the coach said: “It’s not that straightforward, otherwise we would have done that a long time ago.
Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak arriving for training at the Newcastle United Training Centre, Newcastle upon Tyne. Picture date: Wednesday August 6, 2025.
“I don’t think we’re in a position to be able to do that currently.”
Sunday sees the Toon take on Atletico Madrid in their final friendly before the first competitive match of the season, against Aston Villa on August 16.
Isak is currently training away from the squad and Howe has suggested that won’t change any time soon.
Speaking after their 2-2 draw with Espanyol on Friday, the manager said: “I’d want Alex to be playing today, I’d want him training tomorrow.
“We would love the player to be with us – let me make that absolutely clear. There’s no part of me that doesn’t want that outcome.
“But I don’t see that changing before Aston Villa, the current situation we’re in.”
Liverpool’s first bid of about £110 million was rejected, but they are expected to return with an improved offer.
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