Eddie Howe drops clearest hint yet Alexander Isak could join Liverpool

Eddie Howe says the Alexander Isak transfer saga is coming to an end ahead of next month's transfer deadline as the Swede continues to be linked with a move to Liverpool.

Isak, who was the subject of a £110 million bid from Liverpool that was turned down by Newcastle, is currently training on his own as he pushes for a big-money move away from St James' Park.

The situation escalated this week after Isak accused the club of breaking promises in a strongly-worded statement.

"Promises were made and the club has known my position for a long time," he said. "To now act as if these issues are only emerging is misleading. When promises are broken and trust is lost, the relationship can't continue."

In response, Newcastle said they were "disappointed" with Isak and denied that any club official had told the striker he could leave.

But the Swede is adamant he will never represent the Magpies again, according to The Athletic, who claim Isak regards his career at the Premier League side as finished and has no desire to reintegrate into the squad.

Eddie Howe makes feelings clear on Isak future

Speaking ahead of Monday's clash against Liverpool, Eddie Howe hinted that a move to the reigning Premier League champions could be on the cards.

He also confirmed that he will miss the game against Arne Slot's side.

"He [Isak] won't be part of the squad this weekend," Howe said in a press conference ahead of Newcastle's clash against Liverpool.

"The club has to act in the best interests of Newcastle United. It will do that in every situation. It looks like it is coming to an end, or it will come to an end pretty quickly."

Howe also touched on Newcastle's statement regarding Isak.

"It was a sad moment," he said. "My preference is these things do not happen publicly. They are better dealt with behind closed doors. But needs must. The club has spoken and justifiably so in that moment.

"He’s contracted to us. He’s our player. My wish is that he would be playing on Monday. He won’t be and that’s regrettable. But 100 per cent I want him back in a Newcastle shirt."

Newcastle striker Alexander Isak continues to be linked with a move to Liverpool. Image credit: Getty

Newcastle hit back at Isak claims in statement

Shortly after Isak addressed his situation via social media, Newcastle released a statement, as mentioned by Howe in his latest press conference.

"We are clear in response that Alex remains under contract and that no commitment has ever been made by a club official that Alex can leave Newcastle United this summer," they wrote.

"We want to keep our best players, but we also understand players have their own wishes and we listen to their views.

"As explained to Alex and his representatives, we must always take into consideration the best interests of Newcastle United, the team and our supporters in all decisions and we have been clear that the conditions of a sale this summer have not transpired.

"We do not foresee those conditions being met. This is a proud football club with proud traditions and we strive to retain our family feel. Alex remains part of our family and will be welcomed back when he is ready to rejoin his teammates."