Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has confirmed that Alexander Isak will not be part of his side when it takes on Liverpool on Monday, with the Swede still hoping to push through a transfer to Anfield.
And Howe says "it looks like [the saga] is coming to an end, or it will come to an end pretty quickly". Liverpool has already seen one bid turned down, with Newcastle struggling so far to source a replacement.
"The club has to act in the best interests of Newcastle United," Howe said during today's press conference in the North East. "It will do that in every situation."
Earlier in the week, Isak accused Newcastle of breaking promises made to him heading into the summer. That looked like a desperate move to force through an exit with less than two weeks of the summer window remaining.
"[Isak's social media statement] was a sad moment," Howe said. "My preference is that these things do not happen publicly. They are better dealt with behind closed doors.
"But needs must (re Newcastle's statement in response). The club has spoken, and justifiably so in that moment. He’s contracted to us. He’s our player.
Alexander Isak arrives for the Premier League match between Liverpool FC and Newcastle United FC at Anfield on February 26, 2025 (Image: Serena Taylor/Newcastle United via Getty Images)
"My wish is that he would be playing on Monday night with us. He won’t be, and that’s regrettable at this moment. But 100 per cent, I want him back in a Newcastle shirt.
"It is disappointing I am having to mention this at length and taking us away from the football. The players have done well to blank it all out. But it is there in the background, and it is regrettable that we are in this situation."
Howe also confirmed that he held talks with Isak heading into the summer after the player suggested promises made to him had been broken in the last few weeks. However, he refused to disclose what was said, insisting those conversations must remain private.
This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
Liverpool FC 2025/26 kits
"The relationship between our fans and Isak can still be good," Howe added. "The fans will always react to the way a player plays.
"There is always two sides to a story. We will see where we are in a week’s time. I hope I can work with him again."
Liverpool travels to Newcastle on Monday, by which time there will only be one week to go of the transfer window. Anthony Gordon is expected to start as the Magpies' number nine in Isak's absence.
Howe also confirmed that new signing Jacob Ramsey could be involved. "He'll be available," he confirmed. "We've still got training sessions to go before the game, but he's in a good place and has looked really impressive. Really, really good technically, very intelligent, and I think he'll add a lot to the team. He has standout qualities."