Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has dropped his biggest hint yet that Alexander Isak could leave the club.
Speaking candidly about the ongoing situation, Howe admitted he can’t ignore recent events surrounding the Swedish striker.
Isak remains on strike and, according to sources, told Newcastle’s ownership during a private meeting at his Northumberland home on Monday that he has no intention of playing for the team again—even if he remains at the club beyond the transfer deadline.
Communication Breakdown Between Coach and Player
Howe hasn’t spoken directly to Isak since the striker’s explosive statement 10 days ago, in which he accused the club of broken promises and a breach of trust.
The manager has firmly denied ever promising to let Isak move away, creating a tense standoff between player and coach.
Newcastle Exploring Alternatives
Newcastle have been actively pursuing other targets all summer to allow the potential sale of Isak to Liverpool.
While talks have been ongoing, it’s only recently that the club has moved closer to signing German forward Nick Woltemade in a record £65 million deal.
Sources suggest the Premier League champions are preparing a fresh offer for Isak, which would force Newcastle to make a crucial decision.
Meanwhile, the club continues its search for a second striker to strengthen the squad.
Howe Balances Preference with Reality
When asked about his preference regarding Isak’s future, Howe acknowledged his footballing opinion but stressed the need to consider the bigger picture.
“Of course I would have a preference,” Howe told Daily Mail Sport, “but ultimately you’ve got to look at all the information. You can’t just be oblivious to things that have happened.
I’m trying to separate myself from it because I have no control over it. I’ll let everything take its course and then deal with the outcome.”
Staying Detached for the Sake of the Squad
Howe described his approach as pragmatic rather than emotional.
“I don’t think you can be emotionally involved; if you are, you’re going to make a bad decision,” he explained.
“I’ve had to separate myself from it, especially as Alex exited the squad initially. I focused on being the best version of myself for the squad.
This situation wasn’t going to be resolved quickly, and I had no control over a resolution, so I had to move forward with the team.”
What Comes Next?
With the transfer window ticking down, all eyes are on Newcastle and the potential moves surrounding Isak.
Howe’s careful handling of the situation suggests the club is preparing for multiple outcomes, balancing the squad’s needs while navigating one of its trickiest transfer sagas of the summer.
