Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak was instructed to report to training after the rest of the squad had departed on Wednesday, amid ongoing uncertainty surrounding his future at the club.
The 25-year-old Sweden international has been the subject of a £110 million ($197m) bid from Liverpool, who remain keen on acquiring his services this summer.
Isak did not travel with his teammates on their pre-season tour to Singapore and South Korea, with the club citing a minor thigh injury as the reason for his absence.
Instead, Isak chose to train at former club Real Sociedad’s facilities in Spain during the team’s Asian tour, having reportedly informed Newcastle of his desire to explore his options during the current transfer window.
He returned to Tyneside over the weekend, shortly before head coach Eddie Howe and the squad landed back in the UK and were given two days off.
While the squad regrouped for training on Wednesday morning at the club’s Benton training base, with family members invited to join the session, Isak was notably absent during the main session.
Alexander Isak asked to train away from the first-team squad at Newcastle.
According to reports, he was instructed to arrive only after the rest of the players and their families had departed. The striker was photographed arriving at approximately 3:50 p.m.
Liverpool Interest Continues, But No Second Bid Yet
Last week, Ireport247news reported that Liverpool’s offer for Isak had been firmly rejected by Newcastle, leaving the Merseyside club reluctant to submit an improved bid—unless there are clear signals that Newcastle are open to a sale.
That could change if the Magpies secure a replacement, with multiple sources confirming that the club has shown renewed interest in RB Leipzig forward Benjamin Šeško.
Newcastle Target Sesko as Potential Successor
Newcastle and Manchester United have both submitted offers for the Slovenian striker, who scored 18 goals last season for Leipzig.
Newcastle’s initial offer, believed to be around £65.4 million with £4.3m in add-ons, was rejected last week. The Magpies have since returned with an improved bid, understood to be £69.7m plus add-ons.
RB Leipzig are currently reviewing both proposals, but are reluctant to sell both Šeško and fellow striker Loïs Openda in the same window.
What Happens Next?
Isak’s isolated training session may be seen as a reflection of growing tension or uncertainty surrounding his status at the club. Newcastle’s firm rejection of Liverpool’s first offer indicates a reluctance to part ways with their star striker, but the situation remains fluid.
Should Newcastle succeed in luring Šeško or another top-tier forward to St. James’ Park, it may open the door to renewed negotiations for Isak’s departure before the end of the transfer window.