Newcastle boss Eddie Howe has admitted he is “not in full control” of Alexander Isak’s future as Liverpool continue to be linked with the Swedish striker.
- Swedish star has tabled transfer request
- Playing no part in Magpies' pre-season
- Formal transfer offers are yet to arrive
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WHAT HAPPENED?
Prolific frontman Isak, who has hit 62 goals for the Magpies through 109 appearances, is said to have tabled a transfer request at St James’ Park. He is now in the process of mulling over his options.
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THE BIGGER PICTURE
Newcastle are giving him time to make a big career call, with the 25-year-old playing no part in their pre-season plans. Isak was sent home from a friendly date with Celtic and was not included in the travelling party for a tour of Asia.
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DID YOU KNOW?
Isak is nursing a minor thigh injury, with long-haul flights set to do his recovery few favours, but he is also being freed to decide what happens next when it comes to long-term plans at club level.
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WHAT HOWE SAID
Howe concedes that he can do little to influence those decisions, with Newcastle’s manager saying when asked for an update on Isak: “He is still our player. He's contracted to us. We, to a degree, control what is next for him. I would love to believe all possibilities are still available to us. My wish is that he stays, but that's not in my full control. We have not received a formal offer for Alex, from any club. My wish is that he stays and we see him playing again next year.”