Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has confirmed that striker Alexander Isak will not feature in Saturday’s Premier League match against Aston Villa, despite being fit to play. The decision comes amid ongoing transfer speculation linking the 25-year-old with a move to Liverpool.
Liverpool had a reported ÂŁ110 million bid for Isak rejected earlier this summer. Newcastle remain firm that the player is not for sale, although reports indicate the club has begun assessing potential replacements. Brentford’s Yoane Wissa and Manchester United’s Rasmus Hojlund have been linked as possible targets.
Isak has made it clear he no longer wishes to play for Newcastle. Sources close to the player suggest he is determined to force a move to Anfield, creating a standoff between club and player. Howe acknowledged that the situation has not changed in recent days.
“No change this week. All my focus has been on training, Villa, and on the transfer front in terms of trying to get players in,” Howe stated during a press briefing. He also stressed that his professional relationship with Isak remains intact, saying, “I’ve had a great relationship with Alex. You need that with every player. I take my part in that relationship really importantly. I have to work closely with the player to his benefit.”
This development comes as Newcastle aim to qualify for the UEFA Champions League for the third time in four years. Howe faces the challenge of maintaining squad focus while transfer negotiations continue in the background.
The absence of Isak against Aston Villa could have significant implications for Newcastle’s attacking options. Villa, who have strengthened their squad over the summer, will look to capitalise on the disruption.
Newcastle supporters remain divided, with some urging the club to hold firm on their valuation and others calling for a swift resolution to avoid prolonged unrest. The situation echoes previous high-profile Premier League transfer disputes, where player unrest has tested club resolve.
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