SBOTOP: Eddie Howe Confident as Isak Set to Stay at Newcastle Amid Liverpool and Arsenal Interest

As the transfer window heats up and the rumor mill spins relentlessly, Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has offered a composed and reassuring voice regarding the future of his star striker, Alexander Isak. Amid reported interest from Premier League rivals Liverpool and Arsenal, Howe has made it clear that the Swedish international remains central to Newcastle’s ambitions and is not for sale.

In what could have been an unsettling period for the Magpies’ fanbase, Howe’s firm stance has brought a degree of calm to Tyneside. With Champions League qualification narrowly missed last season and domestic expectations higher than ever, Newcastle is at a pivotal juncture in their modern evolution. Retaining a player of Isak’s caliber is not just a matter of talent—it’s a statement of intent.

This comprehensive report delves into Alexander Isak’s meteoric rise at Newcastle, the interest from elite clubs, Eddie Howe’s vision, and what the future might hold for one of the most exciting strikers in European football.

Isak’s Impact Since Arriving at St James’ Park

Alexander Isak joined Newcastle United from Real Sociedad in August 2022 for a club-record fee of around £63 million. Many eyebrows were raised at the time—some questioning the high price tag, others unsure if the lanky, technically gifted Swede could adapt to the rugged demands of English football.

Those doubts were quickly dispelled.

In his debut season, despite an early injury setback, Isak scored 10 goals in 22 Premier League appearances. But it wasn’t just about numbers. His flair, agility, and intelligent movement added a new dimension to Newcastle’s attack. Capable of playing as a traditional No. 9 or drifting wide to exploit channels, Isak quickly became a fan favorite.

By the end of the 2024/25 season, Isak had notched 20 goals in all competitions, helping Newcastle reach the Carabao Cup final and push for a top-four finish. His ability to score in big games—against the likes of Manchester United, Chelsea, and Liverpool—further underlined his importance.

At just 25, Isak is not only one of the Premier League’s brightest attacking talents but also a player yet to reach his peak.

Liverpool and Arsenal Interested Observers

It is no surprise, then, that top Premier League clubs have begun circling. Liverpool, under new management after Jürgen Klopp’s departure, are reportedly keen to add a dynamic forward to complement their evolving attacking system. With Mohamed Salah potentially playing his final season at Anfield, the Reds are exploring long-term replacements—Isak’s versatility and age profile fit the bill.

Arsenal, too, have kept tabs on the Swede. Mikel Arteta is believed to be in the market for a striker who offers more mobility and clinical finishing than Gabriel Jesus or Eddie Nketiah. Isak, with his intelligent pressing, link-up play, and eye for goal, appears to tick all the boxes.

Both clubs are understood to have made informal inquiries, testing the waters with intermediaries. However, no formal bids have been submitted—perhaps because they’ve already received the message loud and clear from the North East: Isak is not on the market.

Eddie Howe’s Unshakable Stance

Speaking to the media during Newcastle’s preseason tour in the United States, Eddie Howe addressed the growing speculation with characteristic poise and clarity:

“We’re building something long-term here, and Alexander is a huge part of that. He’s committed, he’s happy, and he’s improving every day. There’s no desire on our part to sell. He’s not just our striker—he’s part of the identity we’re creating at this football club.”

Howe has always placed great emphasis on player development and team cohesion. Isak’s integration into the squad has been seamless, thanks in part to Howe’s man-management skills and Newcastle’s unified dressing room culture.

More importantly, Isak himself has shown no signs of discontent. In a recent interview with a Swedish outlet, he expressed excitement about Newcastle’s future:

“I feel at home here. The club, the fans, the ambition—it’s all going in the right direction. We want to compete for trophies. That’s my focus.”

Newcastle’s Project Too Big to Walk Away From

Since the Saudi-backed consortium took over the club in late 2021, Newcastle United have undergone a remarkable transformation. From relegation candidates to European challengers in less than three years, the club is now viewed as one of the most ambitious and financially stable outfits in the Premier League.

But unlike some of their big-spending rivals, Newcastle’s approach has been measured. Rather than splash cash recklessly, they’ve focused on smart recruitment and squad harmony. Isak, along with Bruno Guimarães, Sven Botman, and Kieran Trippier, represents a new era defined by technical quality and mental resilience.

With St James’ Park consistently sold out, a new training facility underway, and plans for stadium expansion being considered, Isak finds himself at the heart of a project with serious upward momentum.

Walking away from such a trajectory—especially to join clubs where he’d face stiffer competition for starting spots—doesn’t seem appealing. Not now.

What Makes Isak Special

Standing at 6’4″, Alexander Isak defies traditional striker stereotypes. He combines elegant footwork with physical strength, often gliding past defenders with a deceptive turn of pace. His close control in tight areas is matched by an ability to shoot from distance or poach goals inside the six-yard box.

One of Isak’s standout attributes is his intelligence off the ball. He frequently drifts into half-spaces to drag defenders out of position, creating room for teammates like Miguel Almirón and Anthony Gordon to exploit.

Isak also fits perfectly into Howe’s high-pressing philosophy. He leads the line with relentless energy, forcing errors and initiating counter-attacks.

Tactically, he’s versatile enough to adapt to different systems—something that no doubt makes him appealing to clubs like Liverpool and Arsenal. But at Newcastle, he’s the undisputed focal point. He’s not part of a rotation—he is the striker.

Financial Reality and FFP Considerations

In an era of Financial Fair Play scrutiny, Newcastle’s ability to hold on to star players like Isak also speaks volumes about the club’s planning. Unlike in the past, when selling key players was necessary to balance the books, Newcastle now boast commercial growth and long-term sponsorship deals that ease financial pressure.

Even if Liverpool or Arsenal were to test the waters with a huge offer—say, in excess of £90 million—Newcastle are under no obligation to sell. With a long-term contract in place until 2028 and no release clause, the power firmly lies with the club.

And selling Isak now would not just weaken the team—it would damage the perception of Newcastle as a growing force determined to challenge the Premier League’s status quo.