Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has firmly denied claims that he assured striker Alexander Isak of a summer transfer, though he acknowledged the growing likelihood of the player’s departure. Speculation has intensified in recent days that Isak is bound for Liverpool, with the club’s acquisition of German forward Nick Woltemade from Stuttgart seen as paving the way for a major sale.
Howe refuted suggestions that he had promised Isak an exit, stating, “I never make guarantees to players about transfers, as I don’t have full control over such matters.” Despite his initial desire to retain the Swedish international, Howe conceded that the situation has evolved, with the player appearing determined to leave.
Isak’s stance became clear following a social media post hinting at broken promises, and subsequent efforts by club officials to persuade him to stay—including a visit to his home and a contract offer—reportedly failed to change his mind. With Isak having skipped training and matches during the preseason, his relationship with the club appears fractured.
Howe emphasized that while he has a preference regarding the player’s future, he must consider all factors. “You can’t ignore what’s happened,” he noted, adding that the final decision rests with the club’s hierarchy.
Newcastle is actively pursuing additional attacking options, with Brentford’s Yoane Wissa and Wolves’ Jørgen Strand Larsen among the potential targets. Meanwhile, the squad has shown resilience amid the uncertainty, with Howe praising the group’s improved morale in recent weeks.
As the transfer window enters its final stages, Newcastle aims to finalize its business to ensure a competitive campaign ahead.
