Alexander Isak has returned to Tyneside after staging a personal training camp at his former club, Real Sociedad, in Spain — a move that raised eyebrows within the Newcastle United hierarchy. The Swedish striker touched down in Newcastle on Saturday, just 24 hours after Liverpool’s audacious £110 million bid, which included add-ons, was rebuffed by the Magpies.
The 25-year-old had refused to join the club’s pre-season tour of Asia, opting instead to maintain his fitness in San Sebastián. His absence sparked speculation over his future and amplified reports of a potential exit. According to OpitaGlobalMedia Football, Liverpool’s initial offer fell short of Newcastle’s valuation of £150 million, despite being the second-largest bid in Premier League history.
Newcastle, however, remain firm in their stance that Isak is not for sale — unless their hefty asking price is met. With less than a month to go before the two clubs meet in the Premier League on August 25, live on Sky Sports, tensions between the boardroom and dugout are growing.
Newcastle Brace for Second Liverpool Bid as Sesko Emerges as Target
Despite the club’s resistance, Newcastle are already planning for a possible Isak departure. On Saturday morning, they submitted a formal £70 million bid to RB Leipzig for Slovenian striker Benjamin Sesko. The deal reportedly includes £65.5 million upfront and £4.3 million in add-ons, aligning with Leipzig’s valuation.
Leipzig’s sporting director, Marcel Schafer, confirmed interest from multiple clubs: “We won’t go into detail, but several clubs have shown strong interest and made approaches.” Manchester United are also keen on Sesko, with the Red Devils monitoring the situation closely. The player is said to be open to both projects.
Meanwhile, Leipzig are believed to be exploring the possibility of bringing in Rasmus Højlund from Manchester United on loan, suggesting a striker merry-go-round could ensue before the transfer window shuts.
Howe in the Dark: “I Found Out Through the Media”
Eddie Howe has admitted to being blindsided by Isak’s decision to train in Spain, revealing he only became aware of the situation through media reports. Speaking during Newcastle’s pre-season tour in South Korea, the manager appeared frustrated and uncertain about the next steps.
“I know where he is now — through the media,” Howe said during a press conference ahead of Sunday’s friendly against Tottenham. “I really don’t know what’s going to happen next, but from our perspective we still support Alex in every way, and my wish is still that we see him in a Newcastle shirt again.”
Howe confirmed that the Liverpool bid had been rejected before it even reached him. While he remains hopeful of retaining Isak, the striker’s desire to explore options complicates the club’s strategy. The forward reportedly informed Newcastle weeks ago that he was open to a summer move after Liverpool’s initial informal enquiry.
Isak’s Value Skyrockets After Record-Breaking Season
Isak’s stock has soared after a sensational 2024/25 season in which he scored 23 Premier League goals — second only to Mohamed Salah. The Sweden international consistently outperformed his expected goals (20.42), underscoring his deadly efficiency in front of goal.
More than just a poacher, Isak has proven his versatility. Six of his 36 long-range efforts resulted in goals, highlighting his technical prowess. Data comparisons with other top strikers across Europe show Isak excelling in dribbling, link-up play, and box entries, making him one of the continent’s most complete forwards.
Given these performances, Newcastle’s £150 million valuation is seen by insiders as justified, if not conservative. But for Liverpool, who may return with an improved offer in the coming days, the question remains whether they will meet the Magpies’ price or look elsewhere.
Newcastle’s Transfer Window Under Pressure
Eddie Howe faces a transfer window fraught with challenges. With Callum Wilson’s exit earlier this summer and Isak’s future uncertain, the club is suddenly short on top-tier strikers. Will Osula is the only first-team forward currently on the pre-season tour.
Efforts to strengthen the squad have been frustrating. The Magpies have missed out on Liam Delap, Joao Pedro, Hugo Ekitike, and James Trafford, all of whom chose rival clubs. Yoane Wissa’s pursuit has also stalled, despite the Brentford striker being left out of a recent friendly — a sign he is angling for a move.
“We’re looking for the best players that we can get,” Howe stressed. “It’s quality over quantity. It always has been. That’s the only way we’ll reach our goals.” Despite setbacks, Howe insists the recruitment team remains active and competitive.
Whether or not Newcastle manage to hold onto Isak, or secure a suitable replacement like Sesko, will define the trajectory of their season — and possibly Eddie Howe’s future.
