Newcastle must make no-nonsense stance clear amid major Alexander Isak development
Alexander Isak’s transfer saga at Newcastle United has finally reached its long-awaited conclusion amid interest from Liverpool.
After seeing an initial bid rejected, Liverpool had been backed to make another Isak offer, as Arne Slot continues to strengthen the reigning Premier League champions.
The Sweden international notched an eye-catching return of 23 goals and six assists in 34 top flight outings last term.
Isak even showed Liverpool what he can do on the big stage when he scored against them in last season’s Carabao Cup final to send Newcastle on their way to glory.
Isak must knuckle down at Newcastle as future decision made
Liverpool’s transfer advances have disrupted Eddie Howe’s side as Isak didn’t travel to Singapore for the North East club’s pre-season tour.
However, Newcastle have claimed Isak is not for sale, with the new Premier League season just around the corner.
But the striker’s desire to explore his options away from St James’ Park have clearly been a nuisance for Howe, who has had to cope with pre-season fixtures without his talisman.
With Isak set to remain in the North East, Newcastle must ensure that he works hard to earn a new contract, which can ensure his long-term future.
Howe’s decision on whether to hand the Sweden international should depend on his attitude, rather than the contract’s ability to fend off further interest from Liverpool, as no other parties are currently interested.
Howe set to further benefit from Isak’s services
Isak can help Newcastle perform well in both the Premier League and the Champions League if he can return to his best form after a disrupted pre-season.
| Alexander Isak stats | All competitions 2024/25 |
| Appearances | 42 |
| Goals | 27 |
| Assists | 6 |
The former Real Sociedad man has proven himself as one of the best strikers in the English top flight, and should be keen to help the Magpies perform better than they did in the 2023/24 Champions League campaign, when they were knocked out in the group stages.
Howe could still be concerned about Isak’s attitude heading into the new season, but if the Swede can perform at his best, then the North East outfit can trouble the upper echelons of the Premier League table once again.
The Liverpool transfer target will be even more vital for Newcastle in 2025/26, after Newcastle missed out on signing fellow strikers Joao Pedro, Liam Delap, Benjamin Sesko, and Hugo Ekitike.
Howe’s side are certainly a stronger outfit with Isak up front, but can not tolerate any further distractions from the 25-year-old.