Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has confirmed that the club has not received any formal offers for star striker Alexander Isak, amid continued speculation linking the Swede with a summer move. 

Despite interest from top clubs, including Liverpool, Isak remains under contract with Newcastle and has not traveled with the squad for their pre-season tour of Asia.

The 25-year-old forward, who joined Newcastle from Real Sociedad in 2022 for around £60 million, is reportedly considering his options. 

Although Newcastle initially attributed his absence to a “minor thigh injury,” many see it as a sign of potential transfer movement. However, Howe insists no deal is currently on the table and reaffirmed the club’s desire to keep its top scorer.

“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.” Howe stated during a press conference in Seoul. 

Liverpool remains strongly linked to Isak, even after signing striker Hugo Ekitike for a reported £69 million. Sources suggest the Reds are still monitoring Isak’s situation, eyeing him as another potential addition to bolster their attacking options ahead of the new season.

Isak has proven to be a critical part of Newcastle’s resurgence in recent years, netting 62 goals in 109 appearances for the club. 

His 27-goal haul last season alone cemented his place as one of the Premier League’s most consistent forwards, making him an attractive prospect for elite clubs across Europe.

While Newcastle continue to reiterate that Isak is not for sale, the lack of certainty over the striker’s intentions and the persistent interest from rivals leave his future up in the air. 

For now, the Magpies are standing firm, with Howe hopeful he can retain one of his most valuable assets for the upcoming campaign.