Newcastle Rocked by Alexander Isak's Transfer Request Amid Liverpool Interest

Newcastle United’s pre-season plans have been thrown into disarray after Alexander Isak reportedly informed the club of his desire to leave this summer. The Swedish striker, who has become one of Eddie Howe’s key players since joining from Real Sociedad, has asked to explore other options—just as Liverpool and Saudi club Al-Hilal circle with interest.

Isak was left out of the Magpies’ 30-man squad for their pre-season tour of the Far East, with the club initially stating a thigh injury was the reason for his absence. However, it's now clear that there's more going on behind the scenes. Sources close to the situation suggest that Isak has handed in a formal transfer request and is no longer committing to Newcastle’s long-term plans. 

The 25-year-old still has three years left on his contract, and Newcastle were believed to be planning fresh talks for an extension later in the year. But those discussions are now on ice, with Isak and his camp holding out to see what kind of offers arrive. Liverpool, who are reportedly keen to make him the most expensive signing in British football history, are monitoring the situation closely. Al-Hilal, too, are said to be willing to test Newcastle’s resolve with a massive bid. 

Isak missed Newcastle’s 4-0 defeat to Celtic over the weekend, with Howe saying the striker had been given time off to manage his minutes and recover. But speculation around his future only intensified after he did not travel with the rest of the squad. "He’s happy at Newcastle," Howe insisted. "He loves the players he plays with, the staff, the team and I've never had any issue with him. But I think it's difficult for me to give 100% clarity on any player. I'd never sit here and do that because it's football and you never know what can happen." 

Newcastle, backed by Saudi ownership, are not under pressure to sell, and sources within the club have suggested they would only consider letting Isak go if a bid of around £150 million comes in. They remain hopeful of convincing him to stay at least until next summer.  

Isak joined Newcastle in 2022 and hit the ground running. He’s scored 31 goals in 65 games, becoming one of the most exciting young strikers in the Premier League. His performances were crucial in helping Newcastle secure a Champions League spot in his first season. 

The Magpies’ pre-season continues with a clash against Arsenal in Singapore this Sunday, followed by matches against a K-League All-Star XI, Tottenham, Espanyol, and Atletico Madrid. Their Premier League campaign kicks off with a tricky trip to Aston Villa on August 16, before hosting Liverpool in what could be a tense early-season reunion—if Isak ends up in red.