Eddie Howe breaks silence on Alexander Isak's future with bombshell update

Eddie Howe has issued a fresh update on the future of Alexander Isak amid intense transfer speculation.

Liverpool are circling after Isak informed Newcastle United that he wants to explore his options this summer.

That's despite the Reds signing Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt in a deal worth £79 million.

But the Premier League champions can afford the Swedish international even though they have spent almost £300 million during the transfer window.

Liverpool are preparing a British record offer to lure Isak to Anfield, with Howe speaking out on the rampant rumours ahead of his side's game against Arsenal.

When asked if he wanted a quick resolution to the situation, he replied: "I wouldn't put a timescale on it. I think with these situations it has to be right for the football club, and everything then is taken into context below that."

Eddie Howe says Newcastle United have a 'decision to make' on Alexander Isak. Image: Getty

Howe added: "But the club will make the right decision with all the information that it has, and ultimately to try and move the club forward in whatever way that is. Then it's up to us to make good decisions the other way and try and improve the squad as best we can. That’s what we're trying to do, regardless of Alex's situation.

"But I think there's a wider picture here. There's a whole football club that has to make the decision. The ownership, together with the board of directors, especially with the money involved in modern day transfers. The manager of course has an opinion, but ultimately the decision will rest with the board."

Eddie Howe confirms talks with Alexander Isak behind the scenes

Isak hasn't travelled to Asia for Newcastle's pre-season tour, having cited a thigh injury before his team's friendly against Celtic.

But talks are ongoing with the star forward behind the scenes, which Howe will keep private.

"Of course there's things going on behind the scenes (with Alex). He will be aware he's in the news every day, and I'm sure that's not easy for anyone in that situation. Conversations that happen between Alex and the club or Alex and myself will stay private for obvious reasons. We do share a really good relationship with him," he said.

"He's been magnificent for us and he’s very popular in the dressing room. We'd love him to continue his journey at Newcastle. I certainly hope he stays. And I said (last weekend) I was confident that he'd stay. I don't see anything that's going to change that opinion of mine at the moment, but it's football and who knows what the future may bring.

"All I would say on the broader picture is whatever happens has to be right for Newcastle. We're in a very strong position financially. We're determined to be successful. We are ambitious. We've got a great season ahead of us. We need to add to the squad and continue to improve, and the journey can continue in an upward trajectory."

Alexander Isak is wanted by Liverpool. Image: Getty

No contract talks are taking place with Alexander Isak

Howe also revealed that there are currently no contract discussions taking place between Newcastle and Isak.

But he admits talks over a new deal could still happen.

"As far as I'm aware, I don't think there are any contract talks taking place at the moment," he continued. "That’ll be for a later date potentially. I think for now, with the situation as it is and the state of the window, in the sense that it's hurtling towards the end of the window very quickly, from our perspective, there's still so much that could happen."