Newcastle United’s summer has been a difficult one, with Anthony Elanga being the only real first-team signing. They have held some interest in many other targets, but have failed to get close to a deal for any of them. Meanwhile, Alexander Isak has been heavily linked with a move to Liverpool. After their pre-season match against Arsenal, Eddie Howe made a statement regarding the matter.
Eddie Howe Makes Shocking Statement Regarding Alexander Isak With Liverpool Interested
‘No Chance’
Following Newcastle United’s 3-2 loss to Arsenal in a pre-season fixture, their manager was subject to a press conference as usual. The Geordies had actually taken the lead after six minutes, though trailed 2-1 at half-time. Howe revealed that there is “no chance” of Isak joining the rest of the squad in Asia for the rest of their tour over the next week. He said that there has been no change in the situation since yesterday.
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Isak had requested a move away from the club on July 24, with Liverpool the only team in concrete talks according to Fabrizio Romano, despite Saudi interest. Howe had admitted in his pre-match presser that there were “things going on behind the scenes” and that there are currently “no contract talks taking place”.
Will Newcastle’s Transfer Window Actually Hurt Them This Season?
There has been heavy criticism over Newcastle’s transfer window: despite signing Elanga, they had hoped to bring in their top target, Hugo Ekitike, as well as keeping Isak. However, Liverpool have not only hijacked the race for Ekitike, but they now look like they could potentially steal starman Isak as well.
However, whilst this is not ideal, it only leaves the Magpies short in one area: the striker department. They now have plenty of winger options with Elanga joining Harvey Barnes, Anthony Gordon, and even Jacob Murphy. Meanwhile, their defence and midfield were strong last season and have not changed.
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Despite Callum Wilson also departing, they have the promising William Osula as a back-up option. If they can find a new number nine, they will be fine, and this shouldn’t be difficult with Isak set to bring in an incredibly high fee. Viktor Gyokeres and Ekitike are now no longer on the market, but the likes of Benjamin Sesko haven’t been picked up yet.
