Newcastle United’s star striker, Alexander Isak, is not currently in contract talks with the club, and negotiations do not seem likely to happen in the near future. Despite initial discussions last season, Isak and his camp are hesitant to commit to a new deal at this time. The lack of contract extension is due to Isak’s ambition to play in the Champions League and concerns about the pace of Newcastle’s project.
While Isak is content living in Newcastle and working under Eddie Howe, sources suggest that if the team fails to qualify for the Champions League this season, Isak’s camp may seek a move. This news has put Arsenal on high alert, as they have previously expressed interest in the Swedish international. Although Newcastle values Isak as a top earner and star player, the need to comply with Profit and Sustainability Rules means that player trading may be necessary to enhance spending capabilities.
With three years remaining on Isak’s contract, Newcastle will have a strong negotiating position come next summer. Despite a slow start to this season, Isak’s market value remains high, making him an attractive target for clubs like Arsenal. Additionally, recent leaks of confidential messages between Amanda Staveley and a member of Mike Ashley’s team have raised questions about the Saudi-led takeover of Newcastle, but the Premier League is unlikely to revisit the issue.
In other news, Newcastle staff were frustrated by a delay in the second-half kick-off during a recent match against Brighton. The team was kept waiting, prompting concerns about time management and potential strategies for future games. Moreover, there is a trend of opposing teams making Newcastle shoot uphill in the second half, deviating from the club’s traditional preference to shoot downhill.
As Newcastle explores plans for a new stadium on Leazes Park, club executives have traveled to Riyadh to discuss the project with PIF chiefs. The club is keen to keep details of the stadium renovation under wraps, requiring individuals privy to the information to sign non-disclosure agreements. This secrecy extends to the Fan Advisory Board and commercial partners involved in the project.
To engage fans, the club has introduced a “Toon Teaser” segment, challenging supporters to name players who have appeared for both Newcastle and other clubs. Last week’s challenge focused on players from Newcastle and Brighton, while this week’s question involves identifying players from Newcastle and Chelsea since 1992. The club’s efforts to maintain excitement and secrecy around stadium plans reflect a strategic approach to managing fan engagement and media coverage.