Alexander Isak stuns Newcastle by handing in transfer request after missing pre-season tour amid Liverpool and Al-Hilal interest

Per Mail Sport, Isak has informed Newcastle United that he wants to assess transfer opportunities elsewhere and handed in a formal transfer request, amid interest from Liverpool and Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal. The 25-year-old was left out of the club’s tour of the Far East, initially citing a thigh injury. The striker still has three years remaining on his current deal, and Newcastle had planned to open talks over a contract extension later this year. While the Magpies are reluctant to let their star man go, an offer close to £150 million could change their stance.

Isak missed Newcastle’s recent 4-0 defeat to Celtic, with Magpies boss Eddie Howe admitting he had sent the striker home due to the ongoing speculation over his future. The Sweden international was then a noticeable absentee from the club's pre-season tour squad of Asia, with the Magpies saying he was staying at home due to a "minor thigh injury."

Isak joined Newcastle United from Real Sociedad in 2022 and quickly became one of the club’s most important players. He has scored 31 goals in 65 appearances across all competitions and helped Eddie Howe’s side qualify for the Champions League in his debut season. The Sweden international is seen as one of the Premier League’s brightest forwards and is therefore rated at a price point of £150m.

Newcastle remain firm in their desire to keep Isak, though his transfer request has shifted the situation. Discussions over a new deal may still be possible, but much will depend on the offers that arrive in the coming weeks. If Liverpool or Al-Hilal meet the £150m valuation, a summer exit could become a serious possibility.