Newcastle had to swiftly remove a social media update that touted "on sale now" next to an image of star striker Alexander Isak, as efforts to drum up attention for a pre-season match hit a snag.
The Premier League team is set to welcome Spanish club Espanyol to St James' Park on Friday, August 8, aiming to bolster attendance for this fixture after filling seats for the following day's sold-out encounter with Atletico Madrid.
The tickets are being offered at reasonable rates; however, the initial promotional choice of phrasing and imagery drew the ire of supporters, particularly during the current transfer market speculation, that surrounds one of Europe's most sought-after forwards.
After netting his finest season yet in his three-year stint with Newcastle, Isak’s performance has turned heads at clubs including Liverpool and Arsenal, as well as teams overseas. Despite rumors, Isak hasn’t shown a desire to depart, nor does Newcastle fancy parting with its key player.
Acknowledging their faux pas, the club retracted the original message and revised it. A supporter's reaction captured the mood, noting: "A picture of Isak with a big 'On sale now' sign is not the best idea.."
With Isak seen as the squad's crown jewel potentially commanding a fee beyond £100 million ($135 million), there’s no hint of an exit on the horizon.
Notably, securing a spot in the Champions League provides Newcastle with greater leverage to retain the talented Swede, who still has three years remaining on his contract.
A social media post with Alexander Isak included the words "on sale now"
The post was swiftly deleted by the club
The triumph of lifting a trophy this season, showcased by Isak netting in the Carabao Cup final, affirms Newcastle's ascent. As long as the club aligns with Isak's aspirations, he's expected to stay put, steering clear of transfer rumours.
On the subject of player retention, Eddie Howe expressed: "We want to keep our strongest players, I've said that ever since I've been here and sat in this seat.
'We have to try and keep our best players and bring in more good players to make us even stronger because the ambition of the club and everyone connected with the club is long-term success and that's the only way to get that."
With Newcastle's sporting director Paul Mitchell having recently departed amidst the start of summer signings, the Toon will be eyeing firm progress in the transfer market after a fairly subdued period last year.
Speculation is rife about an enticing bid for Brighton's Joao Pedro but he will not be a replacement for Isak.