Alexander Isak has been told in no uncertain terms by Newcastle United’s board that he will not be sold this summer, with the club’s Saudi owners taking a firm stand against Liverpool’s interest, according to The Telegraph.
The Swedish striker has not taken the decision well, and tensions have escalated behind the scenes.
Manager Eddie Howe has instructed Isak to train away from the first team until he accepts that a move will not be sanctioned in this transfer window.
As it stands, he will not feature for the club until his stance changes.
It’s a bold approach from the Public Investment Fund, Newcastle’s majority owners, whose position has been consistent since last month.
Liverpool were informed early on that the Magpies would not consider a sale, a stance reinforced when their £110 million bid was rejected last week.
Newcastle’s position is unlikely to change, even if they sign another striker, and Liverpool have since cooled their pursuit.
Howe has been aware of the board’s stance for some time and has been attempting to repair relations with the 25-year-old forward – a task proving both delicate and frustrating.
Speaking after Friday’s 2-2 friendly draw with Espanyol at St James’ Park, Howe admitted it was “clear” he “can’t involve” Isak in matches at present.
The striker has three years remaining on his contract and has been told talks over a new deal – likely to include a release clause – will take place after the window closes.
The club see little point in negotiating terms now while emotions remain high.
There is also frustration within Newcastle over Liverpool’s conduct in the pursuit, with officials left baffled by last week’s bid, which fell well short of their £150m valuation.
While the club have looked at signing several forwards this summer, none have been targeted as a direct replacement for Isak.
The refusal to sell enjoys full backing at boardroom level, with co-owner Jamie Reuben equally steadfast in resisting what the club sees as a clear attempt to unsettle their player.
Whether Liverpool truly walk away remains to be seen.
Given Isak’s current frame of mind, the Merseyside club may yet be tempted to return with a British-record bid to test Newcastle’s resolve.
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