Alexander Isak reported back to Newcastle United on Monday. The striker, who is reportedly wanted by Liverpool, was said to have missed The Magpies' pre-season tour of Asia because he had set his sights on a move to Anfield.
Alexander Isak has returned to Newcastle United’s training ground on Monday morning, rejoining the club following his absence from the team’s pre-season tour of Asia.
The Swedish striker, who is currently one of the most coveted forwards in Europe, is at the center of intense transfer speculation, with Liverpool showing strong interest in bringing him to Anfield this summer.
At just 25 years old, Isak has already built an impressive résumé. After making his mark in La Liga with Real Sociedad, his move to Newcastle in 2022 was met with great excitement, and he has since developed into one of the Premier League's most dynamic attacking threats. His combination of technical finesse, pace, and clinical finishing has not gone unnoticed least of all by Liverpool, who are actively seeking to reshape their attacking line under new manager Arne Slot.
Reports suggest that Isak is a top priority for The Reds, especially after the high-profile acquisition of German playmaker Florian Wirtz. Despite the significant investment required to sign Wirtz, Liverpool’s board is reportedly prepared to break the bank once again to secure Isak’s signature indicating a bold and ambitious transfer strategy aimed at re-establishing the club as a dominant force domestically and in Europe.
According to sources close to the deal, Liverpool recently submitted a substantial bid for Isak, which Newcastle swiftly rejected. While the exact figures remain undisclosed, insiders suggest the offer exceeded £70 million underscoring just how serious Liverpool are about signing the striker. However, Newcastle are believed to be holding out for a fee well in excess of £90 million, possibly even north of £100 million, especially given Isak's long-term contract and importance to the squad.
Yet, the story has taken an intriguing turn over the past week. Isak was noticeably absent from Newcastle’s pre-season trip to Asia, sparking speculation that he was pushing for a move. While official statements from the club cited “personal reasons” for his absence, several media outlets in England and Sweden claim that the striker had privately expressed a desire to join Liverpool and was reluctant to participate in the tour as a result.
Now back in the UK and having reported for training, Isak’s return comes at a delicate moment. While it may signal his continued professionalism, it’s clear that tensions exist behind the scenes. Manager Eddie Howe has already hinted at his disapproval of the situation. Speaking last week, Howe made a pointed comment that many interpreted as being directed at Isak: “Players have to earn the right to train with us. We are Newcastle United. A player has a certain responsibility towards the team and must perform. No one should expect to train with the squad if they haven’t delivered.”
Those words, though not naming Isak directly, highlight Howe’s insistence on discipline and unity two values that could be tested if one of his key players is indeed seeking a way out. For a manager trying to build a team capable of challenging for European places again this season, a major transfer saga involving a star striker is hardly ideal preparation.
Newcastle's stance remains firm. The Magpies are under no financial pressure to sell, and with the Saudi-backed ownership committed to the club’s long-term growth, they can afford to hold on to prized assets unless a truly irresistible offer arrives. Still, they are aware that retaining a player who may no longer be fully committed could be disruptive, particularly in a dressing room where harmony is essential.
On Liverpool’s end, the pursuit of Isak reflects a shift in transfer policy. With Arne Slot now at the helm, the club is clearly looking to infuse the squad with fresh energy and attacking variety. Isak’s profile fits the mold perfectly: young, proven at the top level, and capable of playing in multiple roles across the front line. His ability to link play, beat defenders one-on-one, and score consistently would complement the likes of Mohamed Salah and Luis Díaz or even serve as a long-term replacement if Salah’s future in Liverpool comes into question.
With just weeks remaining before the start of the new Premier League season, all eyes will be on how the Isak situation unfolds. Will Liverpool return with an improved offer that forces Newcastle’s hand? Will the player formally request a transfer? Or will Newcastle manage to convince their star striker to stay put and commit to another season at St. James’ Park?
For now, Isak is back in black and white. But for how long remains one of this summer’s biggest transfer questions.
