Eddie Howe Admits Defeat Over Alexander Isa Saga Amid Liverpool Interest | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Pursuit of Alexander Isak Intensifies as Eddie Howe Offers Update

Liverpool’s interest in Alexander Isak has dominated the summer transfer conversation. The Newcastle United forward scored 23 league goals last season, making him one of the most sought-after strikers in Europe. The Reds have already seen a bid of around £110 million turned down, yet the Swedish international remains keen to make the move to Anfield.

Newcastle have been firm in their stance, insisting the 25-year-old is not for sale. Behind the scenes though, the club has been working to line up potential replacements, a sign that the situation is far from settled.

Howe’s Stance on Isak’s Future

Eddie Howe was once again pressed on the Isak situation after Newcastle’s 2-2 friendly draw with Espanyol. The striker was left out of the squad, with Howe explaining why.

“We’ve had discussions and it’s clear at the moment we can’t have him involved with the group,” he said. “I don’t know how long that will be for. It’s clear I can’t involve him with the team at the moment. He is training later than the rest of the squad. There have been discussions since the tour. I don’t think disciplinary action has happened.

“He is here, so of course he has a future at Newcastle. From our perspective, we would love to have him back with the team, but the situation has to be right for that to happen.”

Pressed on whether Isak could feature against Aston Villa when the Premier League kicks off, Howe admitted, “I want Alex to be playing today. I want him training tomorrow. We would love the player to be with us, let me make that absolutely clear. There is no part of me that does not want that outcome. But I don’t see the current situation changing before Aston Villa.”

Photo: IMAGO

Transfer Movements at St James’ Park

Newcastle are actively pursuing attacking reinforcements. Yoane Wissa from Brentford has emerged as a priority target, with a fee of around £35 million being discussed. Wissa is reportedly eager to join a Champions League club, while Brentford are already lining up Dango Ouattara as his replacement.

Other names linked with Newcastle include PSG’s Randal Kolo Muani and Porto forward Samu Aghehowa. The Magpies have also explored moves for Joao Pedro and Hugo Ekitike, but missed out on both, and they lost out to Manchester United in the chase for Benjamin Sesko.

Liverpool’s Next Clash with Newcastle

Liverpool, managed by Arne Slot after his remarkable Premier League title in 2024, face Newcastle on 25 August at St James’ Park. That fixture could carry extra edge if the Isak saga is still unresolved. Supporters from both sides will be watching closely, aware that the striker’s future could influence not just the outcome of the match, but the shape of the title race.

With Newcastle under pressure to strengthen and Liverpool looking to add a proven finisher to Slot’s attacking options, the story of Eddie Howe, Alexander Isak and Liverpool is set to run well into the final weeks of the window.