Could Alexander Isak make a dramatic U-turn and stay at Newcastle?

Newcastle United’s striker situation remains one of the Premier League’s most closely watched stories this summer, with Alexander Isak’s future still uncertain.

The Swedish forward, who has been training separately from the first team and was notably absent from Newcastle’s pre-season tour, appears keen to leave St. James’ Park. However, a dramatic U-turn and extended stay at the club cannot be ruled out.

Isak’s intention to move on has been clear. Liverpool quickly emerged as frontrunners in the race to sign him, reportedly submitting an initial offer of around £110M (approx. $150M). 

Newcastle rejected the bid, holding firm on a valuation closer to £150M ($200M), a figure that would break the British transfer record. The Magpies’ insistence on such a high fee highlights their reluctance to let Isak go without having the means to secure a top-class replacement.

Adding to Newcastle’s challenges is the collapse of its pursuit of RB Leipzig forward Benjamin Sesko, who has reportedly opted to join Manchester United. This setback has left Newcastle scrambling, linked to several strikers but without a clear successor to Isak, raising doubts over whether the club will sanction his departure this summer.

“If Alexander Isak had handled it differently, with his head down and training hard, then you get your move,” said Sky Sports News reporter Mark McAdam. "My gut feeling is no, he will still be at Newcastle. They don't want to sell and will only sell if they have a top-class striker in the building.”

Club legend Alan Shearer has publicly urged manager Eddie Howe to convince Isak to remain for at least another season, suggesting that while a record-breaking offer may be tempting, stability is key to Newcastle’s ambitions this term.

With the transfer window progressing, all eyes are on how Newcastle will manage this delicate situation. If a suitable replacement cannot be secured, the club may have little choice but to keep Isak, at least temporarily.

While awkward, such a move would buy Newcastle time to regroup and avoid weakening its squad ahead of a demanding Premier League campaign.

For now, the possibility of Isak making a dramatic U-turn and staying remains very much alive, a twist that would surprise many but could prove vital for Newcastle’s short-term stability.