Amidst swirling transfer speculation surrounding Newcastle United's star striker Alexander Isak, manager Eddie Howe has reassured fans that the club will not be left without a recognized senior striker should Isak depart. Liverpool's persistent interest in the Swedish international, coupled with Isak's apparent desire to move to Anfield, has created uncertainty at St. James' Park.
Howe acknowledged the ongoing situation, stating that the club is actively working to ensure they have adequate striking options. He emphasized that Newcastle cannot afford to enter the season with only one experienced Premier League striker, referring to Will Osula, a promising player with limited Premier League experience. Howe said, "I don't think the club will allow that situation to happen". "We certainly can't go through the season with no recognized striker at the football club – and that's no disrespect to Will Osula".
The situation with Isak has become increasingly tense, with the player releasing a statement expressing his frustration over "broken promises". He has been training away from the first team. Howe confirmed that Isak would not be part of the squad for the recent game against Aston Villa and the upcoming match against Liverpool. Howe admitted that the situation was "lose-lose".
Newcastle have reportedly refuted Isak's claims, stating that they have not made any commitments regarding his departure. Despite the club's public stance, speculation continues to link Isak with a move to Liverpool, who had a £110 million bid rejected earlier in the summer.
With the transfer window nearing its end, Newcastle have been linked with several strikers as potential replacements for both Isak and Callum Wilson, who departed from the club at the end of June. Brentford's Yoane Wissa has emerged as a primary target, but the two clubs are yet to agree on a fee. Brentford are reportedly holding out for at least £50 million for the DR Congo international, while Newcastle have already had bids up to £40 million rejected. Wissa has reportedly made it clear that he wants to move to Newcastle. He was also notably left out of Brentford's squad against Aston Villa, further fueling speculation about a potential move.
Chelsea's Nicolas Jackson is another striker Newcastle are reportedly interested in. However, they face competition from Aston Villa, Bayern Munich and Napoli for his signature. Other names that have been mentioned include Jorgen Strand Larsen and Alexander Sorloth.
Howe has also experimented with Anthony Gordon in a central attacking role. While Howe praised Gordon's versatility and attacking abilities, he acknowledged that Gordon is not a direct replacement for Isak. Howe stated that "I don't think anyone can fill Alex's boots and Anthony will know that himself. He's not trying to be Alex, he's got to be himself".
Newcastle are expected to be active in the final days of the transfer window as they seek to bolster their attacking options.
