As Newcastle United kicked off their pre-season trip to South Korea, one key player was noticeably absent—Alexander Isak.
The 25-year-old striker, who has been a standout at the club, stayed back on Tyneside with a groin injury.
But it’s not just the injury that’s grabbing attention—there’s growing buzz about his desire to move to Liverpool.
Eddie Howe, speaking from Seoul, admitted that while he wants Isak to stay, the striker’s future isn’t entirely in his hands.
Howe Wants Isak to Stay but Admits It’s Not All Up to Him
During a press chat in the South Korean capital, Howe addressed the swirling transfer rumors. “He’s still our player,” he told Mail Sport.
“He’s under contract with us, and technically we have a good amount of control over what happens next.”
But even Howe acknowledged that control only goes so far.
“I’d love for him to stay, but that’s not entirely my decision,” he added.
Isak still has three years left on his Newcastle contract and, crucially, there’s no release clause.
So if Liverpool—or any other club—wants him, they’ll have to negotiate with Newcastle on the club’s terms.
No Formal Offer Yet, But the Speculation Grows
Despite all the talk, Howe confirmed that Newcastle hasn’t received any official bid for Isak.
“We haven’t had a formal offer from anyone,” he said.
“As far as I’m concerned, he’s still with us and we’re planning with that in mind.”
It’s worth noting, though, that Isak has reportedly made it known he’d be open to a move to Anfield.
That puts Newcastle in a tricky spot—especially if the player pushes harder in the weeks ahead.
Howe Hasn’t Had Time to Talk Transfers in Depth
When asked whether he’d had recent discussions with the club’s higher-ups about Isak’s situation, Howe gave a realistic answer.
“Honestly, no,” he admitted. “We’ve been traveling, prepping for training, and it’s been non-stop.”
While he stays in touch with club officials back in England, Howe said the contact is “minimal” during intense overseas trips like this one.
Newcastle Already Planning for Possible Isak Exit
Behind the scenes, the club isn’t standing still. Newcastle are actively exploring striker options in case Isak leaves.
Yoane Wissa and Benjamin Sesko are among the most serious targets.
Ollie Watkins and Nicolas Jackson are also on the radar, depending on how things unfold.
Howe stressed that the club will remain disciplined. “We can’t act out of character,” he said.
“Everything has to align—quality, price, and fit. If the right player isn’t available at the right value, we won’t force a deal.”
Botman Injury Adds to Squad Concerns on Tour
It’s not just Isak that Newcastle has to worry about.
Defender Sven Botman may be forced to cut his Far East trip short after picking up a groin injury during the team’s 3-2 loss to Arsenal in Singapore.
Howe offered an update: “It didn’t look serious at the time, and the scan confirmed that.
But he won’t play the next match against the K League All Stars. We’re hopeful he could be ready for Sunday’s game against Spurs, but even that’s uncertain.”
Looking ahead, the club hopes Botman will be fit for the Sela Cup double-header at St James’ Park on August 8th and 9th.
A Crucial Transfer Window for Newcastle
With Isak’s situation still up in the air and injuries mounting, this transfer window could be one of the most important of the Eddie Howe era.
The club is carefully weighing its options, trying to add quality without losing control of its spending or direction.
For now, Howe remains hopeful—but realistic. The next few weeks could shape Newcastle’s entire season.