Eddie Howe admits he is not part of the talks between Newcastle United senior figures and Alexander Isak over the striker’s future amid his links with Liverpool.
Isak missed a brilliant game as suitors Liverpool beat Newcastle 3-2 in a Premier League classic at St James’ Park.
It was a heartbreaking night for Newcastle. They looked out of the contest at 2-0 down and with ten men on the pitch following Anthony Gordon’s red card.
Still, goals from Bruno Guimaraes and William Osula brought Eddie Howe’s side back into it before 16-year-old Rio Ngumoha scored a late winner for the English champions.
Isak did not play for Newcastle against Liverpool, and Geordie Boot Boys understands that they could make another bid for the Sweden international soon.
Still, a report from The Daily Mail suggested that co-owner Jamie Reuben and a delegation from PIF held talks with Isak about his future before the Liverpool game.
After the 3-2 defeat, Howe was asked about it.
Eddie Howe and Alexander Isak speak during Newcastle United's Premier League game against Leicester City.
Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images
Eddie Howe asked about PIF’s meeting with Alexander Isak
The report adds that Reuben and club director Jacobo Solis went to Isak’s house in Northumberland.
They reportedly spoke ahead of the Liverpool game, with Newcastle hoping the Sweden international will return to the fold soon.
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While chairman Yasir Al-Rumayyan was not part of the meeting, it’s thought he’s giving his “full backing” to the plan to try and keep Isak. If he does commit to staying, he could be handed a new contract.
Asked about the latest with the striker, Howe said: “I’m not party to the talks that have been happening, I have no idea where that stands.
“I’ve been focused on the team. I’m not party to any discussions that have happened today.”
Newcastle United fans send message to Alexander Isak
Newcastle fans have turned on Isak, with many supporters now in open revolt against a player who scored perhaps the most famous goal in their modern history only a few months ago in the Carabao Cup final.
Prior to the Liverpool game, the excellent Wor Flags sent a brilliant message to the wantaway 25-year-old.
A banner was held up before the game reading: “Nothing is achieved alone. We are a city. A whole population. We are Newcastle United.”
There’s little doubt Isak makes Newcastle a better team. This has been such an ugly saga and, even if he does stay, it’s hard to see how things can ever be the same.