Alexander Isak to Return to Newcastle United Training Despite Liverpool Interest – Report | OneFootball

Alexander Isak Trains in Spain Amid Liverpool Interest: What Comes Next?

Amid swirling speculation around his Newcastle United future, Alexander Isak has opted to step away from the immediate club environment. According to Sky Sports News reporter Keith Downie, the Swedish forward is currently “training over in the Basque region with Real Sociedad,” a club he knows well, in an effort “to get himself back into a proper fitness to be able to play games.”

Newcastle had officially cited a minor thigh injury as the reason for Isak’s exclusion from their pre-season tour of South Korea. However, Downie reports that “after that, then it was revealed that Isak had asked the club to explore options away.” This, naturally, sparked fresh concerns about where his head is at going into the 2025–26 season.

Liverpool’s Informal Approach Changes the Mood

Isak’s name has been linked repeatedly with a move to Liverpool this summer, and Downie confirmed that he “told Newcastle that he wants to explore his options this summer after that informal approach from Liverpool just over two weeks ago.” This change in tone suggests the player is genuinely open to a new challenge, despite being a key part of Eddie Howe’s plans at St James’ Park.

Downie adds: “It just kind of painted a picture that his head has been turned due to the interest from Liverpool.” No formal offer has been lodged as of yet, but it is clear that Anfield remains a possible destination — especially with Arne Slot’s high-pressing, technical style likely appealing to Isak.

Photo: IMAGO

Howe Comfortable but Uncertainty Grows

Although fans may find the optics troubling, Eddie Howe has remained consistent. Isak’s decision to train with his own support team is something the manager has previously acknowledged. “Eddie Howe has actually spoken about this before on the record and said the club are comfortable that Isak has got his own people,” Downie reports.

However, while Newcastle’s official stance appears relaxed, there’s an underlying urgency. The club are already planning ahead, with Downie revealing that “Benjamin Sesko is a player they are very keen on,” should they need to replace Isak quickly.

What Happens When Isak Returns Next Week?

Newcastle are set to return from South Korea on Monday, at which point Isak is expected to rejoin the group in the North East. As Downie notes: “I expect him to be back. And then I guess he’s going to have discussions with Howe, senior members of the staff here to decide what the next steps are.”

The silence from Liverpool’s end has so far kept the door ajar rather than swinging open. But with the Premier League season drawing closer, clarity is needed on both sides.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

This update will raise eyebrows on Merseyside — and hearts too. From a Liverpool supporter’s perspective, this kind of manoeuvring usually points to something more than mere flirtation. Isak is not just looking around; he has distanced himself from pre-season and is literally training in another country. That’s not a player who’s planning to settle in for another long season at St James’.

Isak fits Arne Slot’s vision like a glove. He can lead the line or play in wider channels, has the pace and technical ability to press with intensity, and crucially, he’s proven in the Premier League. In the wake of the Diogo Jota tragedy, fans are hopeful rather than opportunistic. Isak would bring a much-needed injection of attacking depth without disrupting the cohesion of the current front line.

With no formal bid yet placed, it’s all still theoretical. But if Isak’s mind is made up, and Newcastle are already eyeing Sesko, there’s every chance Liverpool make their move once outgoing business is settled. This story has the feel of one that is quietly building towards a pivotal conclusion.