Newcastle Ready to Fight Back After Alexander Isak Drops Transfer Bombshell

Newcastle United are prepared to "establish firm boundaries" with forward Alexander Isak upon Eddie Howe's team's return from their pre-season campaign, according to recent reports.

Isak remained behind after citing a thigh problem, subsequently revealing the forward had requested a transfer following interest from Liverpool, who remain determined to secure his services despite already acquiring Hugo Ekitiké from Eintracht Frankfurt.

While the Newcastle squad tours abroad, Isak is currently working individually at his former club Real Sociedad's training ground, collaborating with his personal fitness coach to recover from his thigh complaint.

Per Chronicle Live, Newcastle will insist Isak rejoins the team alongside his teammates to resume preparations for the upcoming campaign and scheduled matches against Espanyol and Atlético Madrid, where his participation is anticipated given his injury was characterized as "slight".

Although Newcastle are now exploring options for a new forward—Brentford's Yoane Wissa remains a priority target—club leadership has expressed frustration with Liverpool's pursuit, as the Reds currently lack the financial capacity for what would constitute a British transfer record.

Luis Díaz's transfer to Bayern Munich has initiated Liverpool's funding strategy, but the Reds must still offload Darwin Núñez before solidifying their pursuit of Isak, leaving Newcastle frustrated with the circumstances.

Craig Hope, who initially broke the story of Isak's exit request, emphasized that the Magpies are willing to prevent his departure if they cannot secure an adequate replacement.

Newcastle have been pursuing RB Leipzig's Benjamin Šeško but now face competition from Manchester United, with multiple sources suggesting the striker prefers a move to Old Trafford this summer if the opportunity arises.

This setback in their Šeško chase is reportedly diminishing Isak's departure prospects. Newcastle executives have clarified they will only sanction their current striker's sale under favorable terms, providing sufficient funds and time to identify a top-quality successor.

With three years left on his current deal, Newcastle face no urgent pressure to entertain offers for Isak, whom they aim to persuade into signing an extended contract this summer.