Alexander Isak has made his position on his Newcastle United future clear, amid ongoing speculation linking him with a move to Liverpool.
The 25-year-old forward has attracted interest from Liverpool throughout the summer transfer window. A previous offer of around £110 million plus add-ons was reportedly turned down by Newcastle earlier this month.
Isak was left out of Newcastle’s pre-season tour of Asia and instead trained with his former club, Real Sociedad. Although he returned to Newcastle’s training ground last week, manager Eddie Howe instructed him to stay away from first-team training.
Following a 2-0 pre-season loss to Atletico Madrid on Saturday, Howe provided an update on the situation.
“Everything is still possible,” Howe said. “He’s under contract with us, he’s our player, but the club ultimately decides what happens next. Of course, I have my own preference – I want the strongest possible squad, and I want players who are fully committed to the club.”
When asked what would need to change for Isak to be brought back into the squad, Howe responded: “That’s a question for him.”
With Newcastle set to open their Premier League season against Aston Villa at Villa Park in just four days, both the club and player are likely eager for a resolution.
Despite Liverpool’s ongoing interest, Newcastle have consistently stated that Isak is not for sale this summer. However, reports suggest their position could shift if an offer closer to £150 million is made and a suitable replacement can be found.
Liverpool, meanwhile, are seen as needing reinforcements up front after losing Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez. Captain Virgil van Dijk even called on the club to strengthen their attack following their Community Shield defeat to Crystal Palace on Sunday.
“There’s always room to add another attacker to strengthen us,” Van Dijk told talkSPORT. “We’ll see what happens before the window closes.”
The transfer window remains open until 7 p.m. on September 1.
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