Newcastle clears Alexander Isak statement after week absence as transfer boost eyed

Newcastle United have reaffirmed their stance on Alexander Isak amid growing speculation about the striker’s future.

Despite recent concerns surrounding his absence, the club has made it clear that Isak is still scheduled to travel with the squad for their upcoming tour of the Far East.

This decision aligns with Eddie Howe’s consistent message about the Swedish international’s place in the team and future at the club.

Isak’s situation has stirred debate in recent days after he missed Newcastle’s preseason matches against Carlisle United and Celtic.

The latter ended in a disappointing 4-0 defeat, further fueling uncertainty about the team’s offensive depth. However, it’s now understood that Isak returned to training at the club’s Benton base and took part in a light session on Tuesday.

While not yet fully involved in match preparations, the plan is to gradually build up his fitness and reintegrate him into action during the club’s summer tour.

The tour will take the Magpies to Singapore, where they will engage with fans as part of commercial obligations and face Premier League rivals Arsenal—a club that expressed serious interest in signing Isak last summer.

Whether the 24-year-old forward features in that match remains unclear, but his inclusion in the traveling squad will serve as a strong statement of Newcastle’s intent to keep him amid growing interest from other clubs, including Liverpool and Saudi Arabian outfit Al Hilal.

Speaking after the heavy loss to Celtic, Howe made his position known. He acknowledged the absence of his star striker was down to a lack of full training, combined with the growing speculation surrounding his future.

Yet, he remained confident and resolute in the club’s approach to retaining Isak. According to Howe, the striker remains very much part of his plans for the new season, and everyone at the club—from players to backroom staff—shares the same desire to see him stay.

When questioned specifically about whether Isak will be on the plane to Singapore, Howe responded affirmatively.

He described Isak not just as an exceptional player, but also as a valued personality within the dressing room. His comments highlighted how deeply the club values the forward, emphasizing that Isak is not just a key footballing asset, but someone who fits into the culture and spirit of the team.

Still, Howe also acknowledged the unpredictable nature of the transfer market. While he expressed confidence that Isak will be at Newcastle for the start of the new campaign, he was careful not to offer absolute guarantees, a reflection of the volatile nature of modern football.

According to Howe, Isak remains happy, well-integrated, and in good spirits, and there have been no issues behind the scenes—only admiration for his talent and commitment.

Newcastle’s current lack of depth in attack was evident during the recent game at Parkhead. William Osula led the line in Isak’s absence, working hard but unable to make a significant impact on the scoreline.

Promising youngster Sean Neave was also given an opportunity, but the need for reinforcements up front was obvious. Both players are expected to feature again during the tour, particularly in the upcoming fixture against Arsenal in Singapore.

Whether Newcastle are able to secure a new attacking signing before that match remains uncertain, but it’s evident the club is actively working to strengthen the squad.

With Isak’s situation stabilizing for now, the focus shifts to bolstering the frontline and finding solutions that will prepare the team for a demanding Premier League campaign ahead.

As they fly out for their main summer tour, Newcastle face critical days—not only in managing their existing talent but in navigating a transfer market that holds the key to shaping the season.

Isak’s inclusion on that plane is more than a travel detail; it’s a clear signal that Newcastle intend to fight to keep their prized striker as the new season approaches.