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The Alexander Isak transfer saga has taken another dramatic turn, with Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe openly questioning the Swedish striker’s commitment while Liverpool face some uncertainty in their pursuit of the forward.
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe delivered his strongest comments yet regarding Isak’s conduct, revealing the striker “has to earn the right” to return to training with the first team.
Speaking after Newcastle’s 1-1 draw with Tottenham in Seoul, Howe made it clear that Isak’s behavior has crossed a line.
“You have to earn the right to train with us. We are Newcastle United,” Howe stated firmly.
“The player has a responsibility here to be part of a team and part of a squad – you have to act in the right way. No player can expect to act poorly and train with the group as normal.”
And now the situation is in flux again.
We exclusively reported on Friday that Isak is expected to formally request a move away from Newcastle if no progress is forthcoming in the coming days.
And it seems the 25-year-old could make that decision very soon.
Taking to X, Sky Sports’ Keith Downie reported that the Swede returned to Newcastle training this week, although there will be meetings held over the situation:
“Alexander Isak has returned to the Newcastle United training ground this morning following his solo trip to recover/train in Spain,” he wrote
“The NUFC first team squad landed back in the North East earlier this morning.”
“Isak is set to meet Eddie Howe after pulling out of their pre-season trip to Singapore & Korea.”
Newcastle’s pursuit of RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko has emerged as the crucial catalyst that could unlock Isak’s move to Anfield.
The Magpies have submitted a £70 million bid for the 21-year-old Slovenian, who has reportedly told teammates he intends to leave Leipzig this summer.
Downie also confirmed that Sesko is viewed as a direct “replacement for Isak should he leave for Liverpool” rather than an additional striker to work alongside the Swede.
This positioning suggests Newcastle are preparing for Isak’s departure despite their public statements.
🚨 Alexander Isak has returned to the Newcastle United training ground this morning following his solo trip to recover/train in Spain.
✈️ The #NUFC first team squad landed back in the North East earlier this morning.
📅 Isak is set to meet Eddie Howe after pulling out of their… pic.twitter.com/YqJmWLwg3P
— Keith Downie (@SkySports_Keith) August 4, 2025
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