Newcastle manager Eddie Howe stressed on Saturday that Alexander Isak remains part of Newcastle, despite rumours linking him with moves to Premier League champions Liverpool or Al Hilal in Saudi Arabia.
Isak has not joined Newcastle for their pre-season trip to Asia, reportedly due to a slight thigh injury, but Howe stated that the 25-year-old Swedish forward is a vital element of his plans.
“Of course, there are always going to be things going on behind the scenes,” Howe told reporters in Singapore, where Newcastle play Arsenal on Sunday.
“He is aware he’s in the news every day, which I’m sure is not easy for anyone in that situation.
“Conversations between Alex and the club or with me will stay private for obvious reasons. We do share a good relationship,” Howe added.
Isak, who netted 23 goals in the Premier League last season, has been “fantastic for us throughout his time here,” according to Howe. “He fits in very well with the team.”
Isak did not make the trip with the Magpies following the thigh injury that sidelined him during Newcastle’s friendly loss to Celtic last week.
Howe expressed confidence that Isak will be donning the black and white kit when the new season begins next month.
“I said after the game against Celtic that I was confident he would stay. I don’t see anything that is going to change that opinion of mine at the moment.
“It’s football,” he added. “And who knows what the future may bring.”
The Magpies recently ended their 70-year wait for a trophy by capturing the Carabao Cup and finished fifth in the Premier League last season, securing their spot in the Champions League.