Isak Considering Newcastle Exit Amid Ongoing Transfer Speculation

Alexander Isak is reportedly exploring the possibility of a summer move away from Newcastle United after being left out of the club’s pre-season tour of Asia.

The Sweden international, who was omitted from the 30-man squad due to what Newcastle described as a “minor thigh injury,” is understood to be assessing his future, with several top European clubs monitoring the situation.

Despite Newcastle manager Eddie Howe stating over the weekend that Isak would “absolutely” be part of the travelling squad for matches in Singapore and South Korea, the 25-year-old was also absent from Saturday’s 4-0 loss to Celtic, raising further questions.

Sources have suggested that Liverpool remain interested in the striker, even after securing a £69m deal for Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt. Newcastle previously failed with a £70m approach for the Frenchman and are also believed to be tracking Brentford forward Yoane Wissa.

Isak, who netted 27 times in 42 games across all competitions last season, still has three years left on his contract. The club has insisted he is not for sale, and Howe reiterated his confidence that the forward will remain at St. James’ Park.

“It’s hard to be 100% certain about any player,” Howe admitted after the Celtic game. “But Alex is happy here. He gets along well with the squad and staff, and I’ve never had any issues with his attitude.”

Newcastle, backed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, are under no financial pressure to sell and are believed to have set a valuation of around £130m for Isak—a figure only a handful of clubs in Europe could afford. Arsenal had previously shown interest but are now closing in on a deal for Sporting Lisbon’s Viktor Gyokeres, while Manchester City, despite their financial muscle, remain committed to Erling Haaland. Chelsea, meanwhile, have already strengthened their attacking options with the additions of Liam Delap and Joao Pedro.

Mixed Reaction from Fans

Isak’s absence from the tour has prompted concern among supporters, with many questioning whether the injury is genuine or a sign of an impending transfer.

“If these tours are about commercial gain, why leave your top striker behind over a minor injury?” one fan asked. Others urged the player to speak publicly to put the speculation to rest, while some feared the club would struggle to replace him adequately if he left.

Still, a number of fans believe the club’s explanation, pointing out that Isak had a thigh issue at the end of last season.

Squad News

Newcastle will face Arsenal in Singapore on Sunday, followed by matches against a K-League All-Star side on July 30 and Tottenham Hotspur on August 3 in South Korea.

Defender Lewis Hall, who has been sidelined since February with a foot injury, has been included in the tour squad.