Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has decided to omit Alexander Isak from the club’s remaining pre-season fixtures as speculation over a potential move to Liverpool intensifies.
The Magpies face Espanyol and Atletico Madrid in their final warm-up matches, but the Swedish international will play no part as transfer negotiations rumble on.
Isak, 25, who is of Eritrean heritage through his parents, has emerged as Liverpool’s top striking target this summer.
The Reds are expected to table a fresh offer after their initial £110 million bid was rejected last week.
Newcastle, however, have made it clear they value the forward at £150 million and will not sanction a sale until a replacement is secured.
Reports indicate Liverpool’s renewed approach could follow the anticipated sale of Darwin Núñez to Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal, a move that would free up funds for Jürgen Klopp’s side to push harder for Isak’s signature.
According to The Mirror, Howe’s decision to exclude Isak from pre-season action is a precautionary measure to protect the club’s asset as the transfer saga unfolds.
Sources suggest the striker has been training separately from the senior squad, a move interpreted as both a protective step and an acknowledgment of the player’s desire to see the transfer materialise.
For Newcastle, Isak’s departure would represent a significant loss after he impressed last season with his clinical finishing and link-up play.
Signed from Real Sociedad in 2022, he quickly became a fan favourite at St James’ Park, playing a key role in the club’s Champions League qualification push.
While Liverpool remain determined to land the prolific forward, Newcastle’s hardline stance means the coming days will be pivotal in determining whether one of the Premier League’s most sought-after strikers changes clubs before the new season kicks off.
