Newcastle United have declined to refute reports that Swedish striker Alexander Isak has gone AWOL, deepening the uncertainty surrounding his future at the club.
The 25-year-old forward, whose heritage traces to Eritrea, submitted a formal transfer request last week amid intense interest from Premier League rivals Liverpool.
Despite being named in Newcastle’s preseason squad for their tour of Asia, Isak reportedly left the club’s Tyneside base and resurfaced in Spain, where he is training at the facilities of his former club, Real Sociedad.
According to the Daily Mail, Isak is working with a personal fitness coach in San Sebastián and has undergone medical tests which revealed no injury.
This directly contradicts Newcastle’s earlier explanation that the striker was sidelined due to a “minor thigh injury.”
The club’s silence on whether Isak’s departure was sanctioned has only fuelled speculation. While Newcastle have acknowledged his absence, they have refused to confirm whether he had permission to train abroad.
The move is now expected to trigger internal disciplinary proceedings, with the player potentially facing fines or other sanctions.
Liverpool are reportedly leading the race for Isak’s signature, with manager Arne Slot identifying him as a priority target.
However, Newcastle are reluctant to part ways with their top scorer from the 2024/25 season, unless a substantial bid is tabled.
