Eddie Howe has conceded that Alexander Isak’s future at Newcastle is not in his full control, but reiterated the strength of the club’s hand should Liverpool swoop for their star striker.
The Swede remains at home on Tyneside after reporting a groin injury and will not be joining his team-mates here in Seoul during the next six days. The 25-year-old wants a move to Anfield but has three years to run on his Newcastle contract, with no release clause.
Speaking from the South Korean capital on Tuesday, Howe told Mail Sport there has not been a formal offer from any club for Isak, as he said: ‘He is still our player. He’s contracted to us. We, to a degree, control what is next for him. I would love to believe all possibilities are still available to us. My wish is that he stays, but that’s not in my full control.’
He added: ‘We have not received a formal offer for Alex, from any club. My wish is that he stays and we see him playing again next year.’
Howe said at the weekend that the club have ‘a decision’ to make when it comes to Isak’s future. Had he discussed that decision with the hierarchy in recent days?
‘No, I haven’t,’ he said. ‘Mainly for the fact I’ve been travelling and today we’ve been working on the training for this afternoon. With these trips, they are always so intense. Of course, I’m in contact with the people I need to be in contact with back at home, but it’s very minimal contact when you’re away.’
Newcastle are working on deals for more than one striker right now, aware that Isak could go. Yoane Wissa and Benjamin Sesko are the most active pursuits, with Ollie Watkins and Nicolas Jackson also on their radar.
Howe said: ‘It is an important time for us. There is lots to take in. We have to bring the right type of player in. We should in no way act out of character and should work how we always have in the window. That is in a strategic way.
‘If the right player isn’t available to us for the right price, then we can’t do the deals. Everything has to fall in line. We are looking to add depth and quality to the areas that we have identified. Fingers crossed we can get deals done.’
Meanwhile, Sven Botman’s Far East tour could be over. He limped out of the 3-2 defeat by Arsenal in Singapore on Sunday with a groin problem.
Howe said: ‘We didn’t think it was a serious injury at the time and we’ve had that confirmed with a scan. He won’t play tomorrow (vs K League All Stars). He could play against Tottenham on Sunday, but possibly not. We hope he’ll be available for the double header (Sela Cup on Aug 8/9) at St James’ Park.’
