Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe expresses concern over the unsettling transfer speculation surrounding Alexander Isak, with Liverpool showing strong interest. Howe admits the situation is ‘not healthy’ for the team, especially after a frustrating transfer window. Isak’s potential departure would leave a significant void, but Newcastle is looking to adapt and have made signings such as Anthony Elanga and Aaron Ramsdale to strengthen the squad.
Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has expressed his unease regarding the ongoing speculation surrounding the future of star striker Alexander Isak, particularly amidst strong interest from Liverpool. Howe described the situation as "not healthy" for the team, as it casts a shadow over their preparations for the upcoming Premier League season.
The summer transfer window has been a frustrating period for Newcastle, who have missed out on several key targets, including promising young talents like Hugo Ekitike and Benjamin Sesko. The uncertainty surrounding Isak's future has further compounded their challenges.
Isak has reportedly expressed his desire to join Liverpool, a move that would see him playing for one of the Premier League's elite clubs. Liverpool have already made a substantial offer of £110 million plus add-ons for the Swedish international, but Newcastle have rejected the initial bid, signaling their intent to hold onto their prized asset.
The 25-year-old striker's absence from Newcastle's pre-season activities has fueled further speculation. He has been training away from the first team, including a stint at his former club, Real Sociedad, during their pre-season tour of Asia. Howe confirmed that Isak would not be included in the squad for their opening match against Aston Villa, further highlighting the player's detachment from the team.
Isak's importance to Newcastle cannot be overstated. Last season, he was the club's leading scorer with 23 Premier League goals, showcasing his clinical finishing and ability to lead the line. He also played a pivotal role in Newcastle's EFL Cup triumph, scoring the second goal in the final against Liverpool, ending the club's 56-year trophy drought.
Howe acknowledged the disruptive nature of the transfer speculation, describing the off-season as "stressful." He emphasized the need for his team to find a way to win despite the potential absence of their talismanic striker. "I don't think it's been healthy for us," Howe admitted. "I don't deny that's been a big challenge." He further added, "Alex, for me, is one of the best strikers in the world – if not the best. To miss him from your squad leaves a huge gap." Howe conceded that the uncertainty surrounding Isak's future had negatively impacted team morale during pre-season. "I think morale was certainly affected early on during pre-season. There was nothing I could do to affect that – it was always going to be there," he said. He further explained, "When you have a player that good who is not part of your group, it's difficult for the players to fully understand it and to know what's going on and how to react." Despite the challenges, Howe expressed optimism that the squad was beginning to adapt to the situation. "But, as time has gone on, there has been an acceptance this is the squad, and we have got to make the best of the situation. That's always been my train of thought," Howe stated.
"Whatever situation you're in, you have got to find a way, and you can only control what you can control. We have moved forward, and I've got to say the atmosphere of the group has been very good in the last couple of weeks," the Newcastle manager concluded.
Despite the potential departure of Isak, Newcastle have been active in the transfer market, adding Anthony Elanga, Aaron Ramsdale, and Malick Thiaw to their ranks. They are also reportedly close to finalizing a deal with Aston Villa for midfielder Jacob Ramsey, signaling their intent to strengthen the squad regardless of Isak's future.