Eddie Howe blasts Paul Merson talk with strong Newcastle United message on Alexander Isak
Eddie Howe has firmly dismissed any suggestion that Newcastle United would entertain offers for star players like Alexander Isak, addressing remarks from Arsenal legend Paul Merson that the Swedish striker should top the Gunners’ January wish list. Howe made it abundantly clear that Newcastle have no intention of aiding their Premier League rivals, particularly when it involves one of their most prized assets.
Merson had suggested Arsenal should “break the bank” to sign Isak during the upcoming transfer window, a comment that sparked irritation among Newcastle’s fanbase. Speaking to Chronicle Live during his pre-match press conference ahead of Newcastle’s clash with Tottenham Hotspur, Howe didn’t hold back in defending his stance.
Howe: Focus on Newcastle, Not Arsenal
“It’s the first I’ve heard of Merson’s claim, so I’ll need to see the comments,” Howe began. “But our players are loved by us and wanted by us. We have massive games ahead, and we need them to perform. Their focus has to remain on what they are delivering here and now. We can only control what’s within our reach, and talk like that isn’t something we’re worried about.”
Howe dismissed the idea of Isak moving to Arsenal, particularly during the January window, emphasizing the importance of the squad staying united. “I don’t see this being an issue for us, especially not now. We’re focused on having a great season, and so are the players. That’s all that matters,” he stated.
A Firm Stance Against Helping Rivals
This isn’t the first time Howe has expressed Newcastle’s reluctance to engage in transfers that could benefit their Premier League competition. Earlier in the season, he highlighted that other top-flight teams rarely do Newcastle any favors, and the Magpies now intend to adopt a similar policy.
“We’re not looking to help anybody out, that’s for sure,” Howe said. “The Premier League is tough enough as it is to achieve consistent success. We need our best players here, and that’s non-negotiable.”
Merson, speaking on Sky Sports, had boldly speculated that Newcastle might struggle to reject a hefty offer for Isak. “Do Newcastle turn down ÂŁ100m for Isak?” Merson questioned. “ÂŁ150m? Arsenal will have the money, and signing him takes Arsenal to another level.”
Unfazed by Outside Noise
Howe appeared unfazed by such comments, acknowledging that speculation is part of the modern game. “It comes with the territory now,” Howe said. “Maybe in my early days, those comments would have had more of an impact, but at this stage, you just learn to ignore them.
“There will always be talk, rumors, and noise. You can’t control it all, so there’s no point trying. Our focus is solely on what we can manage.”
A Bright Future for Isak
Howe’s confidence in Isak’s potential remains unshaken. Since joining Newcastle for a club-record £63 million, the Swedish international has impressed with his versatility, skill, and ability to adapt to various roles in attack. Howe believes Isak has the tools to become one of the best forwards in the world.
“He can be anything he wants to be,” Howe enthused. “He has a little bit of everything, which makes him so hard to play against. I don’t think there’s a single aspect of his game that he’s lacking. Teams will try to find ways to stop him, but his challenge is to keep finding ways to hurt them and to keep improving.”
A United Front
Newcastle’s stance on Isak reflects the club’s broader ambitions under Howe. With a string of critical matches on the horizon, including their ongoing pursuit of Champions League qualification, the Magpies are determined to keep their core group intact.
Howe’s message is clear: Newcastle are building for sustained success, and they won’t let speculative remarks or big-money offers derail their vision. For now, Alexander Isak remains a vital part of that journey.
