The real reason Alexander Isak has not joined Newcastle United’s pre-season tour of Singapore suggests a move to Liverpool is in the works.
The Swede scored 23 goals in the Premier League last season – only Salah had more – and has been on Liverpool’s summer wish list for months but until now, it has seemed impossible.
Firstly, it would cost in the region of £120m-£150m to prise him from Newcastle’s grasp but until now, it never seemed realistic that Liverpool would be happy to spend so much money as they have this summer.
What changed is unclear but what is plain to see is that Liverpool are not ready to give up on their desire to sign Isak even after committing to a huge financial package to sign Ekitike.
David Ornstein reveals the real reason that Alexander Isak is missing from Newcastle United’s pre-season tour
The Magpies departed England today for their pre-season tour of Singapore but Isak’s absenteeism did not go unnoticed by any means.
The forward was missing from Newcastle’s 4-0 defeat to Celtic on the weekend with Eddie Howe suggesting it was his decision to omit Isak from the travelling party to protect him from ongoing speculation.
Now, missing again, it’s too much for the Newcastle PR machine to explain away.
David Ornstein, reportiong for the Athletic, says that it was actually Isak’s decision to not travel with the team to Singapore amid reports he has informed Newcastle of his wish to leave the club this summer.
Ornstein says: “Alexander Isak wants to leave Newcastle United, multiple sources privy to the situation have told The Athletic.”
“The Sweden international’s absence from Newcastle’s pre-season friendly at Celtic and tour to Asia was a preference of the 25-year-old striker, although the club has not confirmed this.
“Newcastle have been determined to retain Isak on an improved contract — his existing terms run until June 2028 — but are also exploring potential replacements in case he departs.”
