Newcastle stance on Alexander Isak transfer amid Liverpool claim and clear Eddie Howe message
Liverpool is being linked with a sensational move for Alexander Isak - although Newcastle is not about to make things easy for the Reds.
The Swedish international has been in sensational form this season, having scored 17 goals in 24 appearances for the Magpies, including 15 in the Premier League to sit behind just Mohamed Salah (18) and Erling Haaland (17) in the race for the golden boot.
That form has led to plenty of transfer speculation, with Arsenal in particular being linked with a move as the Gunners continue to struggle for a prolific goalscorer. Now, Liverpool is also being touted as a possible destination.
READ MORE: Liverpool tipped to sign Alexander Isak and take advantage of transfer chaos
READ MORE: Alexander Isak has already made his feelings clear on Liverpool amid transfer rumor
According to Football Transfers, the Anfield hierarchy could look to add Isak to Arne Slot’s ranks, having been keeping a close eye on him for some time. If that is the case, it would probably be a deal the Liverpool boss would approve of, having already spoken glowingly of the 25-year-old this season.
Of course, signing such a high-profile forward would not come cheaply for the Reds, or any side for that matter, and recent reports have suggested Newcastle could demand more than $188m (£150m/€178m) for his signature. Not only that, but Newcastle boss Eddie Howe has already made it clear that he doesn’t want to sell Isak anytime soon.
“There’s no part of me or anyone at Newcastle that wants to let Alex go,” Howe said last month. “He’s very much part of our long-term plans. I know his desire to score goals is second to none.”
Howe’s comments came amid suggestions that talks over a contract extension for the striker had stalled. Isak’s current deal at St James’ Park runs until 2028, and his boss doesn’t seem to be in a rush to get that renewed.
“I don’t think contract talks started, I think that’s the issue,” Howe said. However, the Magpies boss has Isak firmly in his plans as Newcastle looks to end its long wait for some silverware.
“Every conversation I have had about Newcastle concerning his future with him has been very positive,” Howe said. “I would love for him, with the other players, to be the man to contribute towards us winning a trophy. That’s the aim.”
Liverpool.com says: It would be a huge surprise to see Liverpool pursuing a deal for Isak, given the figures that are being suggested. Having said that, the Reds could find themselves looking for a new goalscorer if Salah ends up departing in the summer, and Isak certainly fits the bill in that regard.
What’s more, we have seen that the club isn’t afraid to make a big play if it feels it needs a certain player, as demonstrated by the huge bid for Moises Caicedo in 2023. It seems a bit of a long shot at this moment in time, especially with other areas of the squad that need bolstering, but Isak is a player to keep an eye on.