Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has confirmed that no official bids have been submitted for star striker Alexander Isak, despite increasing speculation linking the Swedish international with a potential move away from St. James’ Park this summer.
Isak, 25, has reportedly attracted strong interest from several top European clubs, with Liverpool said to be among the frontrunners. A source close to the matter told BBC Sport that Liverpool remain keen on the striker even after securing the signature of French forward Hugo Ekitike for an initial £69 million. However, Newcastle has yet to receive a formal approach for their prized asset.
Speaking at a press conference during Newcastle’s pre-season tour in Seoul, South Korea, Howe addressed the swirling rumors surrounding Isak’s future, reaffirming the club’s stance on the player’s current status.
“He is still our player. He’s contracted to us,” Howe stated. “We, to a degree, control what is next for him. I would love to believe all possibilities are still available to us. My wish is that he stays, but that’s not in my full control. We have not received a formal offer for Alex, from any club.”
The 6-foot-4 striker has been absent from the club’s tour of Asia, which initially raised eyebrows among fans and pundits. Newcastle clarified that his absence was due to a “minor thigh injury,” though speculation quickly mounted that the player was being kept out in anticipation of a potential transfer.
Isak, who joined Newcastle from Spanish side Real Sociedad in 2022 for a then-club-record fee of around £60 million, still has three years remaining on his current contract. Since arriving in the Premier League, he has become a key figure in Newcastle’s resurgence, scoring an impressive 62 goals in 109 appearances across all competitions. Last season alone, he netted 27 times, helping the Magpies finish in a Europa League qualification spot and reach the FA Cup semi-finals.
His mix of physical presence, pace, and technical skill has drawn comparisons to some of the Premier League’s most prolific strikers. With several top clubs still in need of a reliable goalscorer before the transfer window closes, Isak’s name continues to feature prominently in the rumour mill.
Liverpool, under new manager Arne Slot, is reportedly looking to reshape its attacking line-up following the departure of key players and the uncertain futures of others, such as Darwin Núñez and Luis Díaz. While Ekitike’s arrival was seen as a major statement of intent, sources suggest the Reds are still actively pursuing Isak, viewing him as a proven Premier League striker who could seamlessly integrate into their high-pressing system.
Newcastle, for their part, are facing increasing financial scrutiny under the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR), which could make it difficult for the club to turn down a lucrative offer if one is made. Despite this, Howe reiterated that the club is under no pressure to sell its top players and emphasized that Isak remains an integral part of his plans for the upcoming season.
Isak himself has not spoken publicly about the transfer rumors, but sources close to the player suggest he is open to considering his options if a top-tier club makes an approach. That said, no indications have yet been made that he is actively pushing for a move.
As the summer transfer window progresses, Isak’s situation will remain one to watch closely. With just under two months left before the window closes, Newcastle fans will be hoping the club can resist any external pressure and keep their star striker as they prepare for another campaign at the top end of English football.
For now, the message from Eddie Howe is clear: Alexander Isak is not for sale — unless the right offer comes along.
