According to David Ornstein, Alexander Isak adamant he will not play for Newcastle again. Even if window closes without exit 25yo views #NUFC career over + no wish to reintegrate.
When supporters are awaiting Newcastle United’s line-up to face Aston Villa on Saturday, a burning question will be what role — if any — Alexander Isak might occupy for Eddie Howe’s team.
Isak has not featured in pre-season amid Liverpool’s ongoing pursuit, and while Newcastle have stressed they have no intention of allowing a sale, potential replacements continue to be explored.
The anticipation is that Isak will miss the trip to Villa Park, with his future shrouded in uncertainty.
Based on conversations with sources privy to the matter, The Athletic understands Isak is adamant he will never represent Newcastle again.
Even if they refuse to sell the 25-year-old Sweden striker and he remains on Tyneside when the transfer window closes, Isak regards his career at St James’s Park as finished and has no desire to reintegrate into the squad.
Isak’s perspective is that after being informed last summer that a new contract would not yet be offered to him — because of Newcastle’s need to comply with football’s financial rules and Isak already having a lucrative deal until 2028 — he made clear it would be his last campaign with the club.
Some at Newcastle deny this was expressed and believe the forward planned to discuss the situation, including the possibility of fresh terms, once 2024-25 concluded.
Isak helped his side win the Carabao Cup and qualify for the Champions League. Two weeks before the season ended, he told Howe of his wish to leave and reiterated this on a call to the manager before flying to Sweden after a final-day defeat by Everton.
Liverpool are yet to make another offer since their £110million bid at the beginning of August was turned down. Newcastle’s stance may soften if a proposal closer to £150m arrives and they can fill Isak’s void through the market.
The Premier League champions’ interest remains firm, and Isak is focused on a move to Anfield.