Newcastle send out Alexander Isak warning to Liverpool, Arsenal and PSG as Eddie Howe's side plot contract talks with £120m-rated striker

The Swedish forward has emerged as one of the most sought-after strikers in European football, and the Magpies are eager to secure his long-term future at St. James’ Park. Although Isak is already tied to the club until 2028, Newcastle’s hierarchy is aware that his current salary of £140,000 per week is significantly lower than what other elite forwards earn across England and Europe.

On Tuesday, Newcastle revealed a 28 per cent increase in turnover to £320 million, but their spending power remains restricted due to the Premier League’s Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR). Hence, despite the financial boost, they cannot afford to match the astronomical wages that Isak might command at a club with greater financial resources. So far, there have been no discussions about improving his contract, but with the summer transfer window approaching, speculation about his future is only expected to intensify.

When asked whether Newcastle could offer Isak a new deal reflecting his rising status, the club's chief executive Darren Eales, was caught in a spot of bother.

“We’re going to be clear, he has multi years left [on his deal],” Eales told The Times. “So all of these things, we will have the discussions in terms of a new deal, just like we did, whether it’s Joelinton, Bruno or Anthony Gordon. That’s something that we will approach in the summer.”

On the growing transfer links surrounding Isak, Eales admitted that it was frustrating but inevitable. “It is part and parcel of the world we live in. The reality is that all of our players are under long-term deals. They’re committed to the club, so from that perspective, we’re not looking to move any player on. It would be crazy for us to consider it [selling stars].

“If we chose to renew contracts of players and keep key players here, that means there is going to be an impact in terms of what you have available elsewhere, but Eddie [Howe, the head coach] knows that and understands the financial parameters we have here.”

For Isak, the Champions League remains a priority, as he has only made six appearances in Europe’s premier club competition. If Newcastle fail to qualify for next season’s tournament, the 26-year-old forward may be reluctant to extend his stay.

The Magpies are currently sixth in the Premier League and have endured an inconsistent run of form, losing four of their last nine league matches. However, they still have a chance to win silverware when they face Liverpool in the Carabao Cup final on March 16 - a game that could be crucial in shaping Isak’s decision about his future at the club.