Eddie Howe recently commented on the transfer situation of Alexander Isak, stating, “we definitely can’t.”
Eddie Howe believes that Newcastle United’s owners will not approve the sale of Alexander Isak to Liverpool until a replacement is secured in the final week of the transfer window.
Liverpool had a £110 million bid rejected by Newcastle earlier this month, and Isak is eager to leave St James’ Park, indicating he envisions his future away from the club. After scoring 23 Premier League goals last season, Isak missed Newcastle’s pre-season tour due to a minor injury and has since been training with his former club, Real Sociedad.
He was not part of the squad for last week’s 0-0 draw with Aston Villa and will also miss the upcoming match against Arne Slot’s team. This comes shortly after Isak expressed his desire to move on social media.
Newcastle has struggled to find a suitable replacement for Isak, failing to secure Liam Delap and Joao Pedro, who both signed with Chelsea, and Hugo Ekitike, who joined Liverpool. Most recently, Benjamin Sesko chose Manchester United for around £73 million.
Howe is confident that the club’s Saudi owners won’t let Isak’s potential record-breaking transfer happen without having another striker lined up before the window closes on September 1. He stated, “I don’t think the club will allow that situation to happen. We certainly can’t go through the season without a recognized striker.”
He acknowledged Will Osula’s potential but noted his limited Premier League experience. “Alex is currently our only striker with a history of goals and appearances in the Premier League, so we can’t leave ourselves in that position.”
Regarding Anthony Gordon’s role in Isak’s absence, Howe said, “He’s an attacker and a very good one. When we signed him, we valued his versatility to play on the right, left, or even down the middle, which he has done for England.
While no one can truly replace Isak, Gordon has shown promise. After a solid performance against Aston Villa, where he had seven shots and created chances, Howe believes the goals will come despite the team’s current struggles.
