Newcastle boss Eddie Howe has made it clear that he intends to keep star striker Alexander Isak for as long as possible. The 25-year-old Swedish international, who holds the record as the Magpies’ most expensive signing at £63million, has netted 19 goals this season and is rumoured to be on the radar of clubs like Arsenal and Barcelona.
The upcoming face-off between Isak and Manchester City’s Erling Haaland, who boasts 27 goals this season, will not only draw comparisons but also highlights Newcastle’s need to hold onto their top scorer. When quizzed about Isak’s importance to the club’s future success, given his contract runs for another three and a half years, Howe responded: “We have to try and keep our best players.
Isak’s impressive form, with 18 goals in his last 21 appearances, has been instrumental in Newcastle’s recent upturn, propelling them to their second Carabao Cup final in three seasons and within striking distance of the top four. Howe will need him to be at his best again at the Etihad Stadium if his side are to end a near 25-year wait for a league win at City.
When pressed to pick between Isak and Haaland, Howe said: “I’m sure Pep would give the same answer – I love working with Alex and I wouldn’t swap him for anyone.
