Eddie Howe gives a clear explanation for Alexander Isak’s absence during Newcastle United’s 4-0 pre-season loss to Celtic.

Eddie Howe admits it is not possible to 100% guarantee that Alexander Isak will still be a Newcastle player at the end of the transfer window. The Magpies’ talismanic striker has been heavily linked with a British record transfer move to Liverpool this week, while Arsenal are known to have been long-standing admirers.

Eddie Howe is ‘confident’ that star striker Alexander Isak will stay at Newcastle this summer despite widespread transfer interest. The Magpies made a slow start to their 2025-26 campaign on Saturdayas they suffered a 4-0 drubbing away to Celtic.