Eddie Howe says that he is “confident”, Alexander Isak will still be a player from Newcastle at the end of the transfer window, but says he sent the rush home for the friendly loss to Celtic because of the focus on the future of the Swede.
Newcastle made it clear that Isak was not for sale this week when Liverpool informed their interest in rush hour. The Magpies value Isak, who scored 23 Premier League goals last season, at least £ 150 million.
Arsenal is another club this summer that is watching Isak, but they are now closing a deal for Sportor's Viktor Gyokeres.
“It was my decision,” said Howe about sending Isak home. The striker was not ready to play in the game – which turned out to be a 4-0 thrashing from Celtic – because Newcastle manages its minutes at this early stage of the preseason.
“He traveled to Glasgow with us, but I decided to send him home because of the speculation around him.
“The last thing he wanted was to look in the stands – that was not honest for him. But I am convinced that he will be a Newcastle player who comes the end of the window.”
Analysis: Loss of Newcastle shows the need for signing sessions
Sky Sports News' Keith Downie in Parkhead:
“Newcastle was taught a little lesson today. I know that Celtic is in terms of terms of preparation for the season – they have been a few weeks ago – but there has been a gap between the teams.
“Yes, Newcastle miss the will of Isak, Joelinton, Tino Livramento and Lewis Hall, but Celtic has been ahead of his streets.
“Newcastle fans will think they should add more signing sessions – they have only added Elanga this summer so far, but with this show they need a few more.”
More to follow …