Isak Sent Home By Newcastle Amid Liverpool Interest

The striker has been linked with a move to Liverpool and the Saudi Pro League this week before being left out of the Newcastle squad for Saturday’s friendly with Celtic

Eddie Howe expects Alexander Isak to remain at Newcastle United this summer. That is despite reported interest from Liverpool in the Sweden international striker and a decision to “send him home” ahead of Saturday’s friendly at Celtic.

Isak enjoyed an outstanding 2024–25 season with the Magpies, helping the club win the Carabao Cup and secure Champions League qualification. He scored 23 goals and registered six assists in the Premier League.

Liverpool’s interest in Isak was widely reported this week, though the Reds now appear set to pursue alternative options to strengthen their attacking ranks.

The ECHO understands that Liverpool are now strong favourites — and the preferred destination — for 23-year-old French striker Hugo Ekitike, with ongoing discussions over a deal with Eintracht Frankfurt believed to be worth in excess of £70 million.

Ekitike had a breakthrough season in the Bundesliga, scoring 15 goals and providing eight assists. He had previously been strongly linked with a move to Newcastle, but now appears likely to move to Anfield.

Meanwhile, reports have also linked Isak with potential interest from clubs in Saudi Arabia.

The striker was not included in Newcastle’s squad for Saturday’s friendly against Celtic. Speaking after the 4–0 defeat at Parkhead, Howe explained the decision.

“It was my decision,” he said. “I decided to send him home due to the speculation around him. The last thing he wanted was to be sat in the stand watching — that wasn’t fair to him. But I’m confident he will be a Newcastle player.”

Howe added: “Both [Joelinton and Isak] are fit but not ready to play. Alex has trained and is fine, but we didn’t want to take the risk with him.

“It’s difficult for me to give 100% clarity on any player. Alex is happy at Newcastle — he loves the players, the staff, the team.”

The loss to Celtic capped off a frustrating week for Newcastle, who have so far struggled to land key targets in the transfer market.

Alongside Ekitike, goalkeeper James Trafford was expected to join Newcastle, but on Saturday was strongly linked with a return to Manchester City.