The representative of a key Newcastle United player, highly valued by manager Eddie Howe, suggests that it is “impossible to imagine” him not departing St. James’ Park at some point.
Newcastle Anticipates Interest in Isak Amidst Transfer Speculation
Alexander Isak has distinguished himself as a top performer in the Premier League this season. His crucial goals have significantly boosted Newcastle’s pursuit of Champions League qualification. Consequently, his impressive displays have reportedly caught the attention of several major European clubs, with Arsenal frequently mentioned as a keen admirer of the Swedish forward.
Amidst growing concerns about potentially losing their star striker, reports from David Ornstein of The Athletic indicate Liverpool’s emerging interest in Isak. However, these reports also suggest that Newcastle is currently not open to selling him, offering some reassurance to fans.
Ornstein stated that Liverpool is the latest club to express interest in Isak, joining a list of potential suitors. Despite this, Newcastle’s current stance is to retain the player.
He further commented, “Liverpool is not the only club interested in the Swedish player. It’s known that Mikel Arteta (Arsenal manager) is keen on signing him, and Chelsea and Barcelona have also been mentioned as potential destinations. Many other clubs would likely be interested if an opportunity arose.”
Ornstein clarified Newcastle’s position, stating, “However, this is a big ‘if’. Newcastle has no intention of selling their prized asset and understandably prefers to avoid such discussions.” He added that only an extraordinary offer, in the region of £150 million, might tempt Newcastle to part with Isak – a price tag that would likely deter most clubs worldwide.
Concluding on Isak’s situation, Ornstein said, “Newcastle is in a strong position and their plan is to build their team around him, not to sell him.”
Tonali’s Agent Suggests Future Return to Italian Football
While Newcastle aims to build its future with players like Isak, they might face a future without Sandro Tonali at some point.
Tonali, the Italian midfielder who joined Newcastle from AC Milan in 2023, has been a standout performer for Eddie Howe since returning from a ban related to betting regulations in September. He has been a regular starter for Newcastle, consistently delivering elegant and impactful performances in midfield.
However, Tonali’s agent, Marianna Meccacci, has indicated that her client is expected to return to Italy eventually, amidst reported interest from his former club AC Milan and Juventus.
“He will return to Italy. When? It’s difficult to predict,” Meccacci mentioned in a podcast interview. “He is a valuable asset for Italian football.”
She further explained, “As long as the Premier League opportunity is available, he will embrace it, but it’s hard to imagine he won’t come back to Italian football in the future.”
Eddie Howe has openly expressed his admiration for Tonali. Earlier in the year, Howe praised Tonali, stating he has been “everything I hoped he would be and even more” since his return to the team.
“I believe he is constantly improving. The training he undertook during his ban, I anticipated would benefit him in the long run. However, without competitive matches, it was challenging to fully assess his progress and development during that period.”
Howe concluded, “Now, we are witnessing tangible growth in his performances.”
Vihaan Mehrotra