Alexander Isak has informed Newcastle United of his desire to leave the club this summer and opted out of their pre-season tour of Asia, multiple sources told The Athletic and many other outlets on Thursday.
The 25-year-old striker, who has been linked to both Liverpool and Al Hilal, did and will not travel to Singapore or South Korea, with Newcastle publicly citing a minor thigh injury. Privately, sources said Isak preferred to stay behind amid uncertainty over his future.
“Alexander Isak wants to
leave Newcastle United,” The Athletic reported. “His absence... was a preference of the 25-year-old striker.”
Eddie Howe had initially suggested the Swede would join the tour, but the club’s final squad list did not include him.
“I decided to send him home due to the speculation around him,” Howe said after Isak also missed the 4–0 loss to Celtic.
Isak, who scored 27 goals last season and is under contract until 2028, has not submitted a formal transfer request—yet. However, sources believe he is prepared to push for a move if necessary.
Isak’s representatives are reportedly advising him toward an exit, and interest remains strong from Liverpool, who previously explored a £120 million deal. Newcastle maintain that he is not for sale and would demand £150 million.
The club has identified RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko as a potential replacement and remains in talks for Brentford’s Yoane Wissa.
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