Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has claimed that Alexander Isak could stay at St James' Park, but added that he is not aware of the club blocking approaches from Liverpool.
Arne Slot's side will face Crystal Palace in the Community Shield on Sunday, and they will hope that their new-look attack can lead them to victory.
Hugo Ekitike is expected to lead the line, but despite the striker impressing in pre-season, the Premier League champions still appear to be keen on signing Isak.
The Merseysiders had an initial offer of £110m turned down by the Magpies earlier in August, and reports had emerged suggesting that Newcastle have decided against sanctioning Isak's exit to Anfield.
Speaking to the press on Saturday, Howe claimed to have no knowledge of the club blocking the Swede's transfer, but insisted the striker could yet stay, saying: "No, that’s not something I'm aware of. I’m not party to all discussions, but I have no knowledge of [all exit routes being blocked]."
"I think everything is in play. I've said many times he is contracted to us. He is our player. The club make the decision on his future."
The comments were made in the aftermath of the Toon's 2-0 defeat against Atletico Madrid on Saturday, their fourth loss in six pre-season friendlies.
Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe on August 3, 2025
Should Isak's behaviour concern Liverpool and Slot?
Numerous reports have claimed that Isak has no intention of playing for Newcastle again, and that Liverpool are the only side he wishes to join.
While such claims speak to the attractive nature of Anfield for the world's best, some fans have expressed concern about the manner in which Isak has handled his potential exit from the Magpies.
The 25-year-old has not participated in pre-season for the Toon, and considering Newcastle have so far failed to sign a replacement, his desire to leave has left the club scrambling for a new striker.
It should be noted that some reports have suggested that Newcastle have known about Liverpool's interest in Isak since March, and if talkSPORT's claim is to be believed, then perhaps the club's lack of preparatory work bears some of the blame for the current situation.
Newcastle United's Alexander Isak pictured on May 25, 2025
Was Jamie Carragher right about Isak and Ekitike?
Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher spoke on The Overlap, suggesting that the club's attempts to sign Isak may not have been planned prior to this summer, and could be opportunistic in nature.
Having already signed Ekitike this transfer window, the addition of Isak could block the Frenchman's path into the starting XI.
However, Ekitike is versatile and able to play in multiple positions, and after losing Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez this summer, the Reds must strengthen up front if they are to retain the title.
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