Swedish striker, Alexander Isak, is set to rejoin Newcastle United's training camp after a solo stint at Real Sociedad. This development comes amidst an ongoing transfer saga involving the player and Liverpool FC.
Isak is expected to return to the UK this week and rejoin Newcastle United’s training setup following his individual training at Zubieta facility in the Basque Country. The Athletic reports that he will be reporting back to Newcastle’s base soon.
However, most of the first-team squad along with manager Eddie Howe are currently in Asia for their pre-season tour. This includes a high-profile friendly against Spurs in Seoul, South Korea.
Liverpool's £110m bid rejected by Newcastle
The timing of Isak’s return coincides with a significant development in his transfer saga. As reported by The Athletic, Liverpool had made a formal £110 million bid for Isak which was rejected by Newcastle. Liverpool had initially made an informal approach earlier in July indicating they were prepared to go as high as £120 million but fell short of matching Newcastle’s valuation believed to be around £150 million.
Despite this substantial offer from Liverpool, multiple outlets including BBC Sport have confirmed that they have decided not to return with an improved offer viewing their first bid as final. While efforts have been made by Newcastle — including offering him a new contract with a release clause effective from next summer — it appears that Isak remains keen on leaving St James’ Park. Sources close to the club suggest that he has expressed his desire for some time now about exploring opportunities away from St James’ Park.
As further evidence of his intentions, he was excluded from the squad travelling for pre-season preparations in Asia and instead opted for private fitness maintenance sessions in Spain while discussing his future.
Newcastle's Champions League return
Newcastle United is set to return to the Champions League this season for the first time in two decades. While this would be a compelling prospect for most players, it may not be enough to keep Isak who seems intent on moving to a bigger European club.
Attempts have also been made by Newcastle United management to use senior squad members' influence in persuading Isak, but these efforts have so far been unsuccessful.
Alexander Isak's return amidst an ongoing transfer saga adds another layer of intrigue and complexity. As fans eagerly await the outcome of this situation, one thing is clear - football never fails in delivering drama both on and off the pitch.
