Alexander Isak left out of Newcastle's pre-season tour: Here's why
What's the story
Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak has been left out of the club's pre-season squad for their upcoming tour of Asia. The decision comes despite manager Eddie Howe's earlier confirmation that Isak would "absolutely" be part of the team for matches in Singapore and South Korea. The club has named a 30-man squad for the trip but said Isak misses out with a minor thigh injury. Here's more.
Injury impact
Liverpool were interested in buying Isak
As per a report in Sky Sports News, Newcastle United value Isak at a whopping £150 million, at least. The club made its position clear when Liverpool intensified their interest in the striker. Liverpool prepared to offer a record £120m package, but shifted their focus to Hugo Ekitike. Arsenal were also interested in Isak this summer but are now closing in on a deal for Sporting's Viktor Gyokeres. Despite the transfer speculation, Howe remained confident that Isak will still be a Newcastle player at the end of the transfer window.
Manager's call
Isak wasn't scheduled to play against Celtic
Recently, Howe explained his decision to send Isak home ahead of the friendly match against Celtic. The striker wasn't scheduled to play in the game, which ended in a 4-0 defeat for Newcastle. "He traveled to Glasgow with us but I decided to send him home due to the speculation around him," said Howe. He added that "the last thing he wanted was to be sat in the stand watching - that wasn't fair to him."
Information
Liverpool sign Ekitike from Frankfurt
Liverpool have signed striker Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt in a deal worth £79 million (€91.5 million). The transfer came after Liverpool's unsuccessful pursuit of Isak, who was deemed unsellable by his club.
Recovery progress
Hall included in squad despite foot injury
Defender Lewis Hall, who hasn't played since February due to a foot injury, has been included in the squad. His inclusion comes as he continues to recover ahead of the 2025-26 season. Newcastle will take on Arsenal on July 27 in Singapore before heading to South Korea for matches against a K-League All-Star team on July 30 and Tottenham on August 3.