Newcastle United have rejected a £120 million bid from Liverpool for striker Alexander Isak, despite the Swede’s apparent desire to leave. Eddie Howe has responded to the situation, expressing uncertainty over what comes next while confirming his support for Isak. The striker is currently training alone in Spain, and his future remains in limbo as talks continue.
Newcastle United have turned down a significant £120 million bid from Liverpool for star striker Alexander Isak, despite the Swedish forward’s desire to move this summer. The offer, reportedly made on Friday, was rejected by the Magpies, with manager Eddie Howe providing an update on the situation during his team’s pre-season tour in South Korea.
Speaking to reporters, Howe confirmed that he was unaware of the bid until after it had been made. “I was made aware of a bid yesterday and that bid was turned down, all before I’d even heard about it. People back in England are dealing with the situation. I don’t know what happens next,” Howe said.
Howe also reiterated Newcastle’s stance of retaining their prized asset, stressing that the club is doing everything it can to support Isak. “From our perspective, we still support Alex in every way and my wish is that we see him in a Newcastle shirt again,” he added.
Despite Howe’s firm position, the situation remains complicated, with Isak reportedly training alone in Spain after not joining Newcastle’s pre-season squad. Howe acknowledged the strain, calling the scenario “far from ideal” and described it as “quite complex.” This situation has created additional uncertainty regarding Isak’s future at St. James’ Park.
The rejection of Liverpool’s £120 million bid has complicated the transfer saga, with BBC Sport reporting that the Reds may now decide against making a second offer. Newcastle, however, are holding out for a price closer to £150 million ($198m) for the forward, which could prove a stumbling block for Liverpool, considering the hefty price tag.
Isak’s departure could also be linked to Newcastle’s pursuit of RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko, with the Magpies reportedly interested in the Slovenian as a potential replacement. Manchester United is also in the race for Sesko, adding further intrigue to this ongoing transfer saga.
The next chapter in Isak’s future could unfold soon, as Newcastle are set to face Tottenham Hotspur in a pre-season friendly in Seoul on Sunday. With speculation swirling, Howe and his team will be hoping to resolve this matter swiftly as they look to strengthen their squad ahead of the new Premier League season.
This unfolding drama will keep fans and pundits alike on edge, as the summer transfer window progresses and the fate of one of the Premier League’s brightest talents hangs in the balance.
