After rejecting Liverpool’s £120 million bid for Alexander Isak, Newcastle United are preparing for the Swedish striker’s return to the UK, with Isak set to resume training. Despite the initial setback, Liverpool is determined not to give up on securing the forward’s signature.
Alexander Isak Set to Return to Newcastle Amid Transfer Uncertainty
The summer transfer saga surrounding Alexander Isak has taken another twist, with the striker now set to return to Newcastle United after spending time in Spain training away from the club. This follows Liverpool’s formal £120 million bid for the Swedish forward, which was swiftly rejected by the Magpies. While Isak has expressed a desire to leave St James’ Park, Newcastle remains firm in their stance of not letting their prized asset go without a fight.
Liverpool Not Giving Up on Isak:
Despite seeing their initial bid turned down, Liverpool has not given up hope of securing Isak’s services. The Reds remain undeterred and are reportedly prepared to continue their pursuit of the 25-year-old striker. However, with Newcastle demanding around £150 million ($198 million) for Isak, it remains to be seen whether Liverpool will be willing to meet the club’s asking price.
What Howe Said About Isak’s Future:
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe addressed the situation during the team’s pre-season tour in South Korea, explaining that he was not aware of Liverpool’s bid until after it had been rejected. Howe expressed his desire to see Isak remain at Newcastle, stating, “From our perspective, we still support Alex in every way, and my wish is that we see him in a Newcastle shirt again.” Howe also confirmed that Isak, who had been training alone at Real Sociedad, would be rejoining his team-mates in England.
A Complex Situation for Isak and Newcastle:
Howe acknowledged that the situation was far from ideal, describing it as “complex.” The striker’s absence from the pre-season tour has raised questions about his commitment, but it appears he will not go to extreme lengths to force a move. Despite the tension, the Magpies have not ruled out allowing Isak to leave, particularly if a replacement is secured. Newcastle’s interest in RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko could be a key factor in Isak’s future, with reports suggesting that the club may be willing to let Isak go once a deal for Sesko is completed.
What’s Next for Newcastle and Liverpool?
As the transfer window heats up, both Newcastle and Liverpool will be keeping a close eye on Isak’s situation. With Liverpool’s pursuit of the striker still alive, the next few weeks could prove pivotal in determining where Isak will play his football next season.
For Newcastle, the situation is likely to be tied to the outcome of their pursuit of Sesko. If they can secure the Slovenian forward’s signature, Isak’s departure may be a real possibility. However, with Liverpool still intent on signing Isak, the ball is now firmly in Newcastle’s court.
Newcastle’s next match is against Tottenham in Seoul on August 3, and it will be interesting to see whether Isak returns to the squad for that fixture or if his transfer saga continues to dominate the headlines.