Eddie Howe has conceded that he will not have the final say over Alexander Isak's future at Newcastle United, as the striker trains alone amid interest from Liverpool. The 25-year-old Sweden international missed the club's pre-season tour and Sela Cup matches, with Newcastle having rejected a £110m bid from the Anfield club.
Isak, who has three years remaining on his contract, has been valued at £150m by Newcastle. However, Howe admitted the decision on his departure rests with others. 'That's a decision that I won't make, that will be for other people to make,' he said after Saturday's 2-0 defeat to Atlético Madrid.
Newcastle face a challenge to persuade Isak to stay, with the head coach acknowledging the difficulty. 'If it was that easy, I'd have done it yesterday,' Howe remarked when asked if he could convince the forward to remain at St James' Park.
The uncertainty over Isak has compounded Newcastle's transfer window frustrations, having missed out on several targets including Benjamin Sesko and Hugo Ekitiké. The club are also monitoring Anthony Gordon after he limped off with an ankle injury, though Howe described it as a twist and expects him to be fit for the Premier League opener at Aston Villa.
In more positive news, Newcastle are closing in on a deal for Milan defender Malick Thiaw, though Howe declined to comment. The move would address their need for a centre-back after Dean Huijsen joined Real Madrid.
