Alexander Isak asks to leave Newcastle United amid Liverpool interest

Alexander Isak has informed Newcastle United that he wishes to explore a transfer away from the club, according to The Daily Mail.

The striker did not travel with Newcastle’s squad for their pre-season tour of the Far East after reporting a thigh injury earlier this week.

However, the report claims that the club’s hierarchy is aware of Isak’s desire to consider his options this summer.

The 25-year-old has three years remaining on his contract, and chief executive Darren Eales stated in March that discussions about a new deal would take place at the end of the season.

For now, Isak and his representatives are hesitant to commit to fresh terms, amid interest from Liverpool, who are reportedly considering making the Sweden international a British record signing.

Newcastle’s owners and head coach Eddie Howe, however, do not want to sell and would prefer to negotiate a new contract, even if that means a potential move next summer.

While Newcastle remain in a strong contractual position, a substantial offer from Liverpool or any other club –  estimated around £150million – combined with Isak’s intentions could accelerate a transfer in the coming weeks.

Isak missed Newcastle’s 4-0 defeat to Celtic over the weekend after Howe revealed the player was allowed to return home due to speculation about his future and a need to manage his playing time.

The Magpies boss had initially expected Isak to travel with the team to Singapore and South Korea. The club have attributed his absence to a minor thigh issue.

Since joining Newcastle, the forward has scored 62 goals in 109 appearances.

Under Howe’s guidance, Isak has developed into one of the most sought-after strikers in world football.

Any sale of Isak would likely surpass the British transfer record, exceeding the £116million Liverpool paid for Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen last month.

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