Newcastle United headed into the 2025 summer transfer window with high expectations as fans waited patiently through three quiet previous windows aimed at balancing the books and meeting PSR obligations.
With those financial hurdles now supposedly cleared following their UEFA Champions League qualification, many supporters believed this would be the summer the club finally flexed its ambition.
But with just weeks left before the new season kicks off, the only major arrival has been Anthony Elanga from Nottingham Forest for £55m [$74m].
At the same time, Eddie Howe has watched several trusted senior players leave.
Miguel Almiron, Lloyd Kelly and Sean Longstaff were all sold, while Callum Wilson exited as his contract expired.
The fans have grown anxious, not just because of the lack of incoming signings, but also because of what’s unfolding around Alexander Isak.
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Isak has been the center of constant transfer pursuit this season with Liverpool approaching him first this summer before pivoting to Hugo Ekitike.
According to L'Équipe, Al Hilal have also entered talks for the Swedish international with some reports claiming he gave a green light to their proposal.
What is Newcastle's stance on Alexander Isak?
According to The Telegraph, Newcastle have taken a firm stance on Isak’s future and are refusing to be pushed into a sale, as pressure mounts on Tyneside.
Despite the noise and growing interest on their talisman, Newcastle’s leadership are not entertaining offers for their star striker.
Isak, has been left unsettled by the situation, particularly after he was promised a new contract by Amanda Staveley in 2024, which was not followed up on.
Isak still has over three years left on his current deal, and with the club walking a financial tightrope under PSR rules, opening new negotiations didn’t seem like a priority.
But that decision didn’t sit well behind the scenes. as Isak’s agent felt let down and even insulted.
Key decision-makers at Newcastle, including chairman Yasir Al-Rumayyan and co-owner Jamie Reuben, are firm in their message that Isak will not be sold this summer.
The belief is that once the window closes, calm will return, and Newcastle will then table a contract that will make him the club’s highest earner.
Newcastle United news and related links
- Eddie Howe explains Alexander Isak’s absence against Celtic amid transfer speculation
- Newcastle learn asking price for long-term transfer target Giorgio Scalvini
- Newcastle United’s 2025/26 preseason: Fixtures, squad updates and transfer latest for Eddie Howe’s side