Eddie Howe makes Alexander Isak transfer statement as Newcastle reality becomes clear
Eddie Howe has underlined that Alexander Isak is "still our player" amid the uncertainty surrounding his Newcastle future - but admits he's not in "full control" of whether the player stays or goes.
The Swede has made it clear he wants to explore his options away from the Magpies - with Liverpool his most likely destination if he does depart. It would take a British-record fee before Newcastle did choose to sell up this summer however.
Isak is not part of the club's pre-season tour at present and Howe admitted there are no plans for him to join his team-mates in the Far East. Injury is thought to have kept him at home, but the club are equally trying to control the noise around his future.
Howe is yet to lose one of his leading lights since taking charge at Newcastle. The club have been able to warn off suitors when the likes of Bruno Guimaraes and Anthony Gordon have been linked with the exit door, but Isak's situation presents a new challenge.
The Newcastle boss said: "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"
Newcastle would demand £150m before they considered cashing in on Isak, who has just enjoyed the best season of his career. He scored in eight straight Premier League games, one being against suitors Liverpool. He also netted against the Reds as the Magpies won the Carabao Cup back in March.
It has proved to be a difficult summer for Howe, who has seen a number of his targets head elsewhere. The likes of Joao Pedro and James Trafford have opted for other moves and now he accepts there will be a collaborative approach regarding the future of Isak, who he does want to keep.
He said last week: "There's a whole football club that has to make the decision. The ownership, together with the board of directors, especially with the money involved in modern day transfers. The manager of course has an opinion, but ultimately the decision will rest with the board."
Newcastle have reportedly identified the likes of Benjamin Sesko and Yoan Wissa as possible replacements should Isak leave. Sesko was recently on Arsenal's radar before they signed Viktor Gyokeres whilst Manchester United are keen on Watkins.
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