Isak transfer update — Newcastle striker training alone, not available for Premier League opener New
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Newcastle United will be without its key striker Alexander Isak for its Premier League opener against Aston Villa on Saturday.
The 25-year-old has been heavily linked with a move away to Liverpool but the Magpies are yet to officially accept a bid from the defending league champion.
With the rumours of his move intensifying, Isak has reportedly requested to be left out of the match against Villa, as he wishes to explore options elsewhere. The Swedish forward is currently training away from Newcastle’s main squad.
“We’ve had discussions and it’s clear at the moment that we can’t involve him with the group,” Newcastle’s manager Eddie Howe said after its 2-2 draw in a friendly against Espanyol. “I don’t know how long that will be for, but that’s the latest.”
Isak scored 27 goals and assisted six more in 42 appearances for Newcastle last season. In the League Cup final, he scored in the win against Liverpool, helping the club win a trophy after 70 years and becoming a club hero.
But links of a move away from the club has made his future uncertain at Newcastle, with Howe maintaining that he would prefer players who are completely committed to the club.
“He’s contracted to us. He’s our player. The club make the decision on his future,” Howe said of Isak, following Newcastle’s 0-2 loss to Atletico Madrid on Saturday.
“I don’t know what that will be. Of course, I have a preferred outcome. I want the best and strongest squad possible, but also I want players that really want to play for this club.”
