Alexander Isak has returned to Newcastle after spending time at a personal training camp in Spain, amid growing speculation over his future following a £110 million bid from Liverpool — a move Newcastle swiftly rejected.
The 25-year-old striker flew into Newcastle on Saturday afternoon after training privately at the headquarters of his former club, Real Sociedad.
Isak had opted out of Newcastle’s pre-season tour of Asia, citing a thigh injury and choosing to recover with his own staff in San Sebastián.
Ireport247news understands Liverpool’s bid, submitted on Friday, was worth £110 million including add-ons, but failed to meet Newcastle’s £150 million valuation.
The Magpies have no intention of selling their top scorer, but are preparing for all scenarios — having already submitted a £70 million bid for RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko as a potential replacement.
RB Leipzig’s managing director of sport, Marcel Schäfer, confirmed interest in Sesko is high.
“Several clubs have shown strong interest and made approaches,” said Schäfer, though he declined to provide further details. Manchester United are also reportedly pursuing the Slovenian forward.
Howe in the Dark Over Isak’s Whereabouts
Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe confirmed the Liverpool bid was rejected but admitted uncertainty over Isak’s future and revealed he wasn’t informed about the striker’s decision to train in Spain.
“I was made aware of a bid on Friday— it was turned down before I even heard about it,” Howe said at a press conference in South Korea ahead of Sunday’s friendly against Tottenham. “There are people back in England dealing with the situation. I still support Alex in every way, and my wish is to see him in a Newcastle shirt again.”
Howe added, “I know where he is now — through the media. From that perspective, it’s difficult to go into any detail.”
Isak is understood to have informed the club of his desire to explore his options this summer after Liverpool initially made an informal approach earlier in the window. The rest of the Newcastle squad is expected to return from their pre-season tour on Monday.
Why Isak Is in Demand
Isak’s performances last season have made him one of Europe’s most sought-after forwards. He scored 23 Premier League goals — second only to Mohamed Salah — and outperformed his expected goals (20.42), showcasing clinical finishing and sharp positional sense.
Alexander Isak’s Premier League stats and ranks last season
While lethal in the box, Isak’s technical skill and long-range shooting also set him apart, with six of his goals last season coming from outside the area.
Alexander Isak creates scoring opportunities from close range
His per-90 statistics place him among the top strikers in Europe for dribbling, box entries, and link-up play — making him a complete modern forward.