Alexander Isak has asked to leave Newcastle United this summer, a move that has seen the Swedish forward yet to make an appearance for the Premier League side this season.
Liverpool’s bid for the talented forward was turned down, while he remains banished from first-team training. Despite that, Newcastle’s stance over a sale has not changed – that Isak will be going nowhere this summer.
In a move to persuade him, Newcastle chiefs held a clear-the-air talks with Isak in a last-gasp attempt to convince him to stay.
According to Mail Online, Newcastle co-owner Jamie Reuben and a PIF delegation held talks at Isak’s home in an effort to convince him to stay.
Reuben and Newcastle director Jacobo Solis were both in attendance, having met at the striker’s home in Northumberland before Newcastle’s late defeat to Liverpool at St James’ Park.
Alexander Isak has asked to leave Newcastle United for Liverpool. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
It is suggested that a new contract would potentially be at the heart of discussions should Isak promise to stay. Asked how the talks went, Newcastle boss Eddie Howe replied: “I’m not aware of that but I’ve not been party to talks on this for a long time now.
“So, I’ve been preparing the team, giving all my energy to the players that want to play for Newcastle. I think that’s where my energy is best. I’m not party to the talks that have been happening, so I’ve got no idea where that stands.”
Newcastle chairman Yasir Al-Rumayyan was in attendance at St James’ Park on Monday. He is not thought to have been involved in the talks with Isak, but has given his backing to reintegrating the striker.
Asked about his presence, Howe added: “I don’t know why he’s here in a sense that the main reason he’s here is obviously to watch the team, support the team and show his presence, which is much appreciated from my perspective and much loved by everyone when he is here and connecting with the fans.
“But yes, you’re right, he’s the owner. He’s the most important person in terms of directing which decisions we make. But as I said, I’m not party to any conversations that have happened today, so I’ve got no idea what direction that’s in.
“From our side, we want clarity, we want to move forward. We want the narrative to change because we’re in the start of the season now, we’re into the action and we’ve got to get results and we’ve got to try and focus on what we can control.”
Newcastle are back in action this weekend as they travel to Leeds for their final game before deadline day.
