Eddie Howe has not eased uncertainty over Alexander Isak’s Newcastle United future by admitting that there are no ongoing contract talks with the wantaway striker. Isak wants to leave St. James’ Park this summer and is eyeing a blockbuster switch to Liverpool, who were ready to splash £120million for his signature earlier in the month.

The Reds have since committed to a £79m deal for Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike, but could raise further funds through the sales of Darwin Nunez, Luis Diaz, and Harvey Elliott. Isak’s desire to explore a move away from Newcastle emerged after he was not on the plane for the club’s pre-season tour of Asia.

The Magpies will not let their most prized asset leave without resistance and are said to have slapped a valuation worth up to £150m on his head.

But while they have reportedly been determined to tie Isak down on improved terms beyond his 2028 contract expiry, those talks seem to have stalled.

In Singapore, Howe revealed: “There are no contract talks taking place. That will be for a later date, potentially. I certainly hope he stays. It is football, who knows what the future may bring.”

The Newcastle boss expanded on the Isak situation, insisting his relationship with the club is intact but hinting that he will not be allowed to walk away easily.

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“Of course, there are things going on behind the scenes, and he will be aware he is in the news every day, and that is not easy for anyone in that situation,” Howe added.

“Conversations that happen between Alex and myself, and Alex and the club will stay private.

“We do share a really good relationship with him; he has been magnificent for us.

“He is very popular in the dressing room. We would love him to continue his journey at Newcastle, and all I would say is whatever happens has to be right for Newcastle.

“We are in a very strong position financially, and we are determined to be successful. We are ambitious, and we have a great season ahead of us.”

Newcastle have endured a torrid time of things in the transfer market ahead of their second Champions League campaign in three years.

Anthony Elanga’s £55m arrival from Nottingham Forest offers cause for excitement, despite qualms that they paid over the odds for the Swede.

But the Tynesiders have faced rejection from Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, Hugo Ekitike and James Trafford. Isak’s decision has piled onto the uncertainty.