Hope persists for Isak's potential return to Newcastle's squad
Alexander Isak's Future at Newcastle United Hangs in the Balance
The ongoing saga of Alexander Isak's potential transfer from Newcastle United to Liverpool continues to unfold, with the Swedish international striker refusing to participate in pre-season and the opening Premier League match in a bid to force a move.
On August 8, 2025, Newcastle played a draw against Espanyol in a pre-season friendly. Jacob Murphy scored the go-ahead goal for Newcastle in the 77th minute, but Kike Garcia equalized for Espanyol with just a minute remaining. Matt Targett scored an equalizer for Newcastle four minutes later, but the game ended in a stalemate.
Despite the distraction, Eddie Howe, Newcastle's boss, remains optimistic about the team's prospects for the upcoming Premier League season. He believes the game against Espanyol will stand them in good stead, but acknowledged that there is plenty of work to do ahead of their opening league game against Aston Villa on August 16.
The transfer standoff between Newcastle and Liverpool revolves around Liverpool's highest bid of £110 million, which was rejected by Newcastle, who value Isak at around £150 million. Reports suggest that Newcastle have turned down an initial bid for Isak, and Isak himself has reportedly asked to leave the club.
Eddie Howe has stated that discussions have taken place regarding Isak's situation, but no disciplinary action has been taken. He expressed a desire for Isak to return to the team, but stated that the situation must be right for this to happen.
Newcastle have kept Isak registered in their official 2025/26 squad with squad number 14, indicating they have not officially released or sold him yet. According to insider David Ornstein, Isak communicated his desire to leave months ago, and Newcastle warned they would not renew his contract due to financial fair play constraints, but they have not sold him yet because they want to maintain leverage and get their valuation.
As of mid-August 2025, the future of Alexander Isak at Newcastle United remains uncertain. The transfer to Liverpool depends on Liverpool meeting Newcastle's valuation, and Isak balancing the risk of holding out without the club against potential financial losses.
In the midst of Alexander Isak's transfer saga, there have been speculations about a move to Liverpool. Despite his absence, Newcastle United's participation in European leagues, particularly the Premier League, could potentially be influenced by the resolved negotiations. If the Reds meet Newcastle's £150 million valuation for Isak, his future might lie away from St. James' Park.
