Bruno Guimaraes says Newcastle are “really missing” Isak amid Liverpool transfer chase

Newcastle United captain Bruno Guimaraes has admitted that the squad is “really missing” Alexander Isak as speculation about the striker’s future dominates headlines. The Swedish forward, who scored 23 goals in the Premier League last season, has been training away from the first-team squad after making it clear that he wants to leave St James’ Park for Liverpool. Newcastle rejected an initial offer of £110 million earlier this month, and although Liverpool are preparing to raise their bid to more than £130 million with add-ons, Newcastle remain firm in valuing him at £150 million.

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Speaking after a 3-2 defeat to Liverpool, Guimaraes revealed he has had no direct contact with Isak, explaining that the striker now trains at different times to the squad. He admitted it is a “tough situation” but stressed that the players have no influence over the outcome. The Brazilian midfielder described Isak as Newcastle’s “best player” and underlined how much the team is suffering without his goals and presence in attack. His absence has already been felt as Newcastle dropped points in recent games, with fans anxiously watching the developments in what is shaping up to be one of the summer’s biggest transfer sagas.

The battle for Alexander Isak’s signature has quickly become one of the major stories of this transfer window. Liverpool manager Arne Slot sees the 24-year-old as a crucial addition to the squad, particularly with Mohamed Salah now 33 and the need to refresh the attack growing more urgent. Isak’s goal record in the Premier League last season has only strengthened Liverpool’s belief that he is the ideal long-term striker for their frontline. While Liverpool are willing to stretch their finances to land him, the club insists they will not go all the way to Newcastle’s £150 million valuation.

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For Newcastle, the situation has created a headache. Losing Isak so close to the end of the window would make finding a replacement extremely difficult, especially given the tight competition at the top of the Premier League. Saturday’s upcoming clash with Leeds United now looks even more crucial as Eddie Howe’s side attempt to regain momentum after the painful loss to Liverpool. Newcastle’s ability to resist further bids, or Liverpool’s determination to push one step higher, could decide whether the Magpies’ best player stays or departs. With less than a week remaining, the resolution of this saga is now imminent.