Eddie Howe just piled the pressure on PIF with fresh Alexander Isak stance as Liverpool prepare bid

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Eddie Howe has readdressed Alexander Isak’s Newcastle United future, as the Magpies prepare to make a decision about the 25-year-old.

While Eddie Howe and his Newcastle United squad put in the hard work in South Korea, Alexander Isak is away from his teammates after skipping the pre-season trip to Asia.

Geordie Boot Boys understand that Isak wants to leave Newcastle, as he assesses his options to move away.

Anfield feels like his most likely destination, with Liverpool set to bid for Isak as they attempt to continue their blockbuster transfer window.

• Who is Alexander Isak? The striker who burned his Newcastle United reputation to force £125m Liverpool transfer

Eddie Howe says Newcastle United ‘control’ Alexander Isak’s future

Newcastle want Isak to stay, but that currently feels unlikely.

A transfer away from Tyneside could be on the cards, but it is still Newcastle United that ‘control’ the forward’s fate. That is the message that Eddie Howe has reinforced during a press conference in South Korea.

“He [Isak] is still our player,” he said, as reported by the Daily Mail.

“He’s contracted to us. We, to a degree, control what is next for him.

“I would love to believe all possibilities are still available to us. My wish is that he stays, but that’s not in my full control.”

• Who is Eddie Howe? The heroic manager who finally brought a trophy back to Newcastle United

PIF have to do what is right for Newcastle United, not Alexander Isak

Newcastle United will dictate what happens to Isak, who has a contract at St James’ Park until 2028. That deal leaves the Magpies in a position of power, but it does not tell the full story.

They could simply force Isak to stay and honour his contract. However, that would be a bad decision. It would risk upsetting the dressing room harmony at the club, as Howe would have to continue working with a player who does not want to be there.

But that does not mean the club should simply bow down to Isak’s demands. He is only going to leave if a suitable offer arrives. Newcastle United simply cannot let him leave for less than his worth just because he has signalled his intent for a new challenge through the media.

That is where PIF come in. They have to do right by Howe. That means getting the full £150million for Isak. That is what he is worth, and it is the type of sum that will allow the Magpies to transform their squad.

Isak must recognise that is his value too. He wants to be paid like he is one of the best strikers in the world, with Isak wanting £300,000-a-week. Well, Newcastle will only sell him if a bid comes in that reflects that he is one of the best strikers in the world.

As Howe says, Newcastle United remain in control to a large extent. It is up to PIF to make best use of that control and do what is best for their club.