Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has acknowledged that "things are going on behind the scenes" concerning striker Alexander Isak's situation, as Liverpool prepare to submit a British record transfer bid surpassing £120 million for the Swedish international.
Speaking to reporters in Singapore ahead of Newcastle's pre-season friendly against Arsenal, Howe admitted the 25-year-old forward faces daily media scrutiny, which "is not easy for anyone in that situation."
The striker has informed Newcastle's hierarchy of his desire to explore opportunities elsewhere this summer, with Liverpool reportedly preparing to formalise their interest in the player who would command a fee exceeding the current British transfer record.
Howe stressed that any resolution regarding Isak's future must benefit the club, stating: "Whatever happens has to be right for Newcastle."
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|Eddie Howe is desperate for Newcastle to keep hold of Alexander Isak
He explained that such significant decisions involve the entire organisation, not solely the manager.
"There's a whole football club that has to make the decision. The ownership, together with the board of directors, especially with the money involved in modern day transfers," Howe told journalists at the team hotel on Saturday.
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The Newcastle boss confirmed he maintains input in the process but acknowledged: "The manager of course has an opinion, but ultimately the decision will rest with the board."
Howe disclosed that contract negotiations with Isak have been shelved for now.
"As far as I'm aware, I don't think there are any contract talks taking place at the moment. That'll be for a later date potentially," he revealed.
The Swedish striker remained in England whilst his teammates travelled to Asia, having reported discomfort in his thigh initially before Newcastle's match against Celtic.
Howe explained that Isak "went in from training very early and didn't feel right" on the Monday following that fixture.
The forward is currently undergoing assessment in Newcastle for the injury, which the manager initially believed would be "very minimal" in nature.
Despite expressing hope that Isak remains at St James' Park, Howe conceded uncertainty about the striker's future.
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"I certainly hope he stays," he stated, whilst adding: "It's football and who knows what the future may bring."
The manager emphasised Newcastle's robust position, declaring: "We're in a very strong position financially. We're determined to be successful. We are ambitious."
Howe praised Isak's contributions, describing him as "magnificent for us" and "very popular in the dressing room."
He expressed desire for the striker to "continue his journey at Newcastle" whilst acknowledging the transfer window's rapid approach could bring unexpected developments.
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