Newcastle United have now told Alexander Isak he will not be sold this summer, ending any hope the striker had of joining Liverpool during the current transfer window, according to The Telegraph.
The Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund ownership, who owns the club are determined to keep him at St James’ Park.
The message comes after a turbulent preseason for Isak. During the team’s journey to Singapore in July, he reportedly informed officials he wanted to explore a move away.
Soon after, he missed Newcastle’s Asia tour with what was reportedly described as a ‘minor thigh injury’, but instead of remaining with club staff, he trained alone at former side Real Sociedad without permission.
Manager Eddie Howe had already warned that players acting poorly would not be part of the main group, and Isak was reportedly told to train separately until the situation changed.
Liverpool’s interest reportedly became concrete last week when they tabled a bid of around £110m [$148m], but Newcastle rejected it immediately.
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The club reportedly values Isak at £150m [$201m] and has made clear that no offer below that figure will be considered.
Liverpool have since indicated they will not return with another bid unless the stance softens, which reportedly is highly unlikely.
Newcastle United hopeful of Alexander Isak reintegration
Reportedly, despite the standoff, Newcastle have resisted issuing formal discipline, believing the player can be reintegrated once the window closes.
Isak, who has three years remaining on his contract, has been told a new deal will be discussed in September, likely with a release clause.
The club’s hierarchy reportedly believe he has been poorly advised and have dismissed talk of any gentleman’s agreement allowing him to leave.
The board is united in holding their ground. With the Premier League season starting soon and the transfer deadline on September 1, the club faces the challenge of restoring both trust and form in their leading goalscorer.
