Newcastle 'contact' Alexander Isak over Liverpool transfer as Eddie Howe stance emerges

Newcastle boss Eddie Howe is reportedly calm over rumours that Liverpool are eyeing their star striker, Alexander Isak. Informal discussions have already taken place between Howe and the 25-year-old Swedish international about his future, with more comprehensive talks in the pipeline.

Liverpool, along with several other European heavyweights, have shown interest in Isak as they continue to flex their financial muscle in the summer transfer window. The Reds have already splashed out a hefty £185million on Florian Wirtz, Milos Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong.

The newly crowned Premier League champions also have their sights set on Marc Guehi, and it seems they may not stop there. A bid for Isak is reportedly on the cards as Darwin Nunez appears set to sign with Napoli.

However, Newcastle have no plans to let go of their prized asset. According to the Chronicle, Howe could spearhead new contract negotiations when the first-team squad reconvenes for pre-season training on July 7.

The report further states that Howe has maintained contact with Isak during the summer break, holding what have been described as quiet talks, and he remains composed about the situation. Despite Isak's current contract not expiring until June 2028, Newcastle are open to offering him a new deal.

Isak had a stellar season with Newcastle last term, netting 27 goals across all competitions. This included a crucial strike in the Magpies' Carabao Cup final victory over Liverpool at Wembley in March, as they secured a Champions League spot.

However, Newcastle boss Howe has acknowledged the complexity of Isak's situation, with the club needing to navigate financial fair play regulations.

Earlier this year, outgoing chief executive Darren Eales stated that the club is under no pressure to sell its star players, specifically mentioning Isak. "They're all under long-term contracts. We have no intention at all of those players being moved on. We're not under the gun or anything like that," Eales said.

"We've got an ownership that is ambitious and wants the best for the club. So from that perspective, it would be crazy for us to consider it.

"We're striving, as a club, to be at the top table. We want our best players here. I think it shows the value of Isak that they talk about him all the time. We're not looking to move any player on."