Newcastle have refused to deny that Alexander Isak has gone AWOL in Spain, as his attempts to force a move to Liverpool took an unsavoury turn that has infuriated supporters.
The 25-year-old is not here in the Far East with Eddie Howe and his squad after he reported a thigh strain last week, even though a scan showed no damage. The club said then that flying would not be good for such an injury.
However, Isak has since flown to San Sebastian to use the training facilities at his former club Real Sociedad, sparking outrage among fans.
Newcastle have not denied that the Swede is AWOL.
His latest move raises the possibility of a club fine, if they determine he has left Tyneside without their knowledge. So far, Mail Sport has been told of nothing to suggest Newcastle were aware of Isak’s intentions.
Supporters have not reacted kindly to him returning to his old club, when he should be working with Newcastle staff on his rehab, if he is injured.
Newcastle have refused to deny that Alexander Isak has gone AWOL training alone in Spain
Fans say he is ‘handling his departure terribly’ and branded his ongoing exit saga a ‘fiasco’
Eddie Howe has recently admitted that he is not in ‘full control’ of his star striker’s future
Liverpool have already spent close to £300m but do not appear to be letting up on their pursuit
One fan wrote: ‘He’s handling his departure terribly. He earned our love and respect over the years, and he’s undermining it in a single month.’
Another added: ‘Just take the money and end this fiasco.’
Isak is waiting for Liverpool to formalise what should be a British record offer, but his hopes of the move progressing have been hit by Newcastle’s frustration in finding a replacement.
RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko was their top target but Manchester United have now made a move for the Slovenian. A deal is still active for Brentford’s Yoane Wissa, while Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins and Jorgen Strand Larsen of Wolves are also on the shortlist.
Newcastle will not sell Isak if they believe the move is not right for the club, but events of the past seven days have made any potential reintegration extremely difficult.
The club were not commenting on the Isak situation on Thursday night.
