Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has cast doubt on whether star striker Alexander Isak will be available for the club’s Premier League season opener against Aston Villa.
Isak, who was Newcastle’s top scorer last season, has been training away from the first team amid reports of a £110 million bid from Liverpool.
Speaking after a 2-2 friendly draw with Espanyol, Howe explained the situation: “We’ve had discussions and it’s clear at the moment that we can’t involve him with the group. I don’t know how long that will be for, but that’s the latest.”
When asked about the upcoming match against Aston Villa, Howe was blunt. “I’d want Alex to be playing today. I’d want him training tomorrow. We would love the player to be with us,” he said. “Let me make that absolutely clear. There’s no part of me that doesn’t want that outcome, but I don’t see the current situation changing for Aston Villa.”
Last season, Isak was a key player for Newcastle, scoring 23 Premier League goals. His absence leaves a significant hole in the squad. In the friendly against Espanyol, William Osula started up front in Isak’s place.
The potential departure of Isak comes as Newcastle has been linked with several other forwards this summer.
However, many of those players have already found new clubs, with Benjamin Sesko joining Manchester United and Hugo Ekitike signing for Liverpool.
So far, Newcastle’s two senior signings this summer are winger Anthony Elanga and goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale, who joined on a season-long loan.
