Alexander Isak missing from Newcastle’s Asia preseason tour

Alexander Isak will not join Newcastle United’s squad for their preseason tour of Asia. The club announced that the Swedish striker is suffering from a minor thigh injury, as reported by ESPN.

Despite Isak’s absence, Newcastle is taking 30 players including new signing Anthony Elanga. Transfer speculation intensifies as Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal shows interest, while Liverpool is also linked with the striker who netted 27 goals from 42 appearances last season.

“It’s difficult for me to give 100% clarity on any player. But Alex is happy at Newcastle. He loves the players he plays with, the staff, and the team,” said manager Eddie Howe.

Newcastle is scheduled to play several preseason matches:

• Arsenal in Singapore
• K-League All-Star team in South Korea
• Tottenham Hotspur
• Espanyol
• Atletico Madrid

Meanwhile, Liverpool has completed the transfer of Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt for a fee that could reach £79 million, making him The Reds’ fourth summer acquisition.