Eddie Howe has indicated that Alexander Isak remains welcome to return to Newcastle United training, even as the striker continues to push for a move to Liverpool.
The Swedish forward is reportedly set to turn down an invitation to this week’s Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) awards ceremony at the Manchester Opera House, where he is shortlisted for the 2025 PFA Players’ Player of the Year award. He joins a strong nominee list that includes Bruno Fernandes, Alexis Mac Allister, Cole Palmer, Declan Rice, and Mohamed Salah.
According to BBC Sport, Isak has yet to confirm his attendance, with sources suggesting he has little intention of showing up.
The 24-year-old has been at the centre of a tense transfer saga in recent weeks, having excused himself from Newcastle’s pre-season tour of Asia with what was described as a minor injury. Despite continuing to train individually over the summer, he has not rejoined first-team training since the squad returned.
Liverpool saw their opening £110 million bid rejected last month, but Isak is holding out for a fresh approach from the Merseyside club.
After Newcastle’s 0-0 draw with Aston Villa at the weekend, manager Eddie Howe made it clear that while the striker has an open path back to the squad, the uncertainty cannot drag on much longer.
“Nothing has changed — the door is still open,” Howe said. “But we need clarity. This situation can’t be a distraction. Ultimately, it’s up to him. I’ve been clear on my stance, and now my focus has to be on the team.”
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