Alexander Isak tells Newcastle he wants out

|By Babatunji Wusu

…Magpies return to transfer market after missing out on Ekitike
…Liverpool, Arsenal circle as striker eyes new chapter in Europe

Newcastle United striker, Alexander Isak, has formally informed the club of his intention to leave this summer, dealing a fresh blow to the Magpies’ transfer strategy.

Isak, who has drawn strong interest from Premier League rivals Liverpool and Arsenal, says he wants to pursue new opportunities away from St James’ Park. The 24-year-old Swedish international’s decision comes just days after Newcastle missed out on signing Hugo Ekitike — a long-term target — who instead penned a six-year deal with Liverpool earlier this week.

The development forces Newcastle back into the market for a striker, as manager Eddie Howe scrambles to reshuffle his attacking options before the transfer window heats up further.

Despite reported interest from Saudi club Al Hilal, Isak is said to be keen on staying in European football. Renowned transfer insider, Fabrizio Romano, revealed via X (formerly Twitter) that Liverpool have maintained interest in Isak, even after securing Ekitike.

“Understand Alexander Isak remains a target for Liverpool even after signing Ekitike… but depends on Newcastle,” Romano stated. “If Newcastle open doors to an exit and #LFC sell Diaz, they can bid after direct contact made 10 days ago. Isak, not in concrete talks with Al Hilal so far.”

With Isak under contract until 2028, Newcastle are likely to demand a premium fee, especially from domestic rivals. However, if the forward pushes for a move, the club could be forced to negotiate a deal sooner than planned.

As the race for Isak intensifies, all eyes remain on whether Newcastle will cash in or convince their star striker to stay one more season.