Newcastle United are undergoing a tough period both on and off the pitch. They were recently handed a 4-0 loss by Celtic in a pre-season friendly. Meanwhile, the club are struggling in the transfer market as well, having failed to secure any major signings other than Anthony Elanga.
Recently, the decision of Alexander Isak to explore a move away from St James’ Park has only added to the sorrows. While Newcastle have travelled to Asia for a pre-season tour, the Swedish international has stayed in England, reportedly due to a minor thigh injury. Notably, the player was also absent from the Celtic game.
It’s only natural for questions to arise regarding Isak at a time when his potential exit is being discussed and he is absent from the squad. And as expected, Newcastle defender Dan Burn was recently asked about the Swedish striker during an interview with Football Insider in Singapore. The news outlet reported that the Englishman has said:
"Obviously, he’s a big player for us, but we’ve got quality all over the field.
“Hopefully he’ll be back training soon.
“I think if we lost any player it would upset us, we’re a tight-knit group that’s been together for two or three years now, so any player that leaves it doesn’t help.
“From our point of view, we’re trying to control what we can control.
“Obviously, we’re looking forward to getting Alex back when he’s fit.
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Dan Burn says losing Isak will be upsetting to the squad
Isak has been a key player for Newcastle since he joined them back in 2022. As a result the club will be left to fill a major void if the the Swedish international leaves.
Liverpool are already known to be big admirers of Isak and have previously shown their desire to take the striker away from St James’ Park. Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal are also said to be interested in the player.
Newcastle will have to effectively reinvest the funds they generate from the sale to reinforce the centre-forward position. They have already identified RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko as a potential option for the role. Additionally the Magpies have been linked with some other candidates as well.
Although nothing has been finalised as of now, all indications point to the fact that Isak’s Newcastle days are drawing to a close. As for his next destination, it remains to be seen.