Isak asked to explore a move away from Newcastle this summer and did not join the squad on the Asia tour
Eddie Howe says Newcastle United’s squad won’t be distracted by the uncertainty surrounding Alexander Isak’s future, as the Swedish striker continues to be linked with a summer exit.
Isak, who finished as the Premier League’s second-highest scorer last season with 23 goals, was not included in the Magpies’ pre-season tour of Asia.
Officially, the club cited a minor thigh issue, but it was later reported he had also asked to explore a move away from Tyneside this summer.
Speaking after Newcastle’s 3-2 defeat to Arsenal in Singapore, Howe admitted that Isak’s absence is felt but insisted that the rest of the squad remain locked in on their preparations.
“Naturally, I think we’re going to miss a player of Alex’s quality and the group are going to feel that,” said Howe.
“There’s no denying that, and I can’t sit here and claim that the players won’t. But they’re a very professional group of players and they’re doing brilliantly as far as I can see in terms of managing the situation.”
Isak joined Newcastle from Real Sociedad in 2022 and has scored 62 goals in 109 appearances. His performances have made him one of the league’s most desired strikers and champions Liverpool made an approach for him earlier this month.
Newcastle have maintained he is not for sale but the player’s desire to explore other projects could force the club to accept bids for him.
However, Howe believes the pre-season tour is demanding enough to keep the players focused.
“You don’t get a chance when you come on to these tours to think of anything other than training,” said Howe. “The level is so high that even in these games we have to be very well prepared.”
