Jul 20, 2018; Chicago, IL, USA; Borussia Dortmund forward Alexander Isak (14) shoots the ball against Manchester City during an International Champions Cup soccer match at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports

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Alexander Isak Left Out of Newcastle Squad for Pre-Season Tour Amid Transfer Speculation

Isak had a standout 2024/25 season, scoring 23 goals in 34 Premier League matches, his best return in a single campaign.

Alexander Isak has been left out of Newcastle United’s pre-season tour to Singapore, raising fresh speculation over the striker’s future. The 25-year-old has recently been the subject of heavy interest from Liverpool, despite Newcastle’s insistence that he is not for sale.

Isak was also absent from Newcastle’s recent friendly defeat to Celtic. Nwcastle manager Eddie Howe revealed that the decision was made to shield the player from transfer speculation. Although Howe had later suggested Isak would join the squad in Asia, the Premier League club has now confirmed that he has not travelled due to a minor thigh injury.

However, doubts remain over a probable transfer move after reports surfaced earlier this week indicating that initial scans were clear. Footage also emerged on social media showing Isak training away from the main group during the team’s recent Austrian camp.

🚨⚠️ Alexander Isak has not travelled with Newcastle to Singapore for pre-season tour.

Newcastle insist it’s not due to transfer reason with the striker still nursing minor thigh injury. pic.twitter.com/tj6wBU2CJC
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 24, 2025

Liverpool Still Monitoring Situation

Liverpool confirmed the signing of Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt earlier this week but are believed to still be monitoring Isak’s situation. The Reds are exploring attacking options, with Darwin Nunez potentially on the market. Earlier this month, Liverpool were reportedly willing to pay up to £120 million for Isak but Newcastle value the Swede at £150 million and are reluctant to sell.

There’s also interest from Saudi clubs, but no formal bids have yet been submitted. Isak had a standout 2024/25 season, scoring 23 goals in 34 Premier League matches, his best return in a single campaign. He helped Newcastle finish fifth last season, which helped the club secure a Champions League berth.

Also Read: All You Need To Know About Fantasy Premier League 2025/26 Launch

The forward was also instrumental in the club’s Carabao Cup win over Liverpool, their first major trophy in 70 years. Since joining from Real Sociedad in 2022, Isak has netted 62 goals in 109 appearances for the Magpies, becoming a central figure in Eddie Howe’s setup.

Alexander Isak

Eddie Howe

Liverpool

Newcastle United

Abhinav Goel

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I am a soccer writer at The PlayOffs, covering everything from match analysis to transfer buzz and tactical deep dives. Ever since I was a kid, soccer has been more than just a sport to me—it’s been an obsession. Playing and watching the game from a young age fueled my passion, eventually leading me into the world of sports media and betting. Now, I get to analyze the sport I love and bring the latest updates to fans worldwide.