Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe has said that he does not envisage Alexander Isak being part of his squad at the beginning of the new Premier League season.
The Swedish striker enjoyed an exceptional campaign for the Magpies last term, finding the back of the net 23 times, with only Mohamed Salah scoring more than him (29).
Isak has been subject of considerable interest from Liverpool this summer, and he has not taken part in pre-season after a £110m for the forward was rejected earlier this month.
With no deal yet being struck between the clubs for Swede, there have been suggestions that the striker could be reintegrated back into the squad ahead of the club's opening game of their Premier League campaign against Aston Villa on August 16.
Speaking to reporters on Friday, while Howe acknowledged that he does want Isak part of the team, he does not see the situation changing in the immediate future, saying: "I want Alex to be playing today. I want him training tomorrow. We would love the player to be with us, let me make that absolutely clear. There is no part of me that does not want that outcome. But I don't see the current situation changing before Aston Villa".
The transfer window closes on September 1, and a resolution on the attacker's future will have to be reached sooner rather than later before the situation sours further.
Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak on April 2, 2025
When will Liverpool make their second bid for Alexander Isak?
Liverpool are reportedly waiting for the green light from Newcastle to make another bid for Isak, but they may have to wait patiently for the Toon to give their approval.
The Magpies have attempted to sign a number of players this summer, including striker replacements for their Swedish striker, but they have failed to get several deals over the line.
Manchester United appear to have won the race for the signature of Benjamin Sesko, who was thought to be a serious target for Howe, while Liverpool completed the signing of Hugo Ekitike.
The latest news report have suggested that Newcastle are considering making an approach for Porto number nine Samu Aghehowa, and should they secure his signature, the Reds might finally be able to sign Isak.
Alexander Isak of Newcastle United celebrates scoring against Ipswich Town, on April 26, 2025
Will Isak be ready for the Premier League season?
While Isak was arguably the best centre-forward in the Premier League last season, there are concerns about his fitness ahead of his proposed move to Anfield.
The 25-year-old has missed 39 games as a result of injury issues in the past three campaigns, and has suffered three separate groin problems since October 2023.
Given he has missed Newcastle's pre-season, it would be risky for Liverpool to throw him straight into the starting XI.
Perhaps the September international break will prove vital for allowing Isak to build his fitness to avoid picking up injury issues due to a lack of preparation.
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