So much has been said about Newcastle United before the transfer window has even opened.

Indeed, despite Newcastle reportedly looking for a rebuild this summer after a testing season at times, it is the players who are being linked with moves away who are hitting the headlines.

Bruno Guimaraes and Alexander Isak continue to be touted as potential targets around some of Europe’s top clubs.

Though there is now a belief from the likes of Craig Hope that Guimaraes will stay even with his release clause in mind, few would doubt the seemingly constant links with a move away are frustrating from a Newcastle perspective.

Thankfully, the situation with Isak is different. Arsenal are believed to be keen but the striker does not have a release clause in his contract and could soon reportedly sign a new deal at St James’ Park reasonably soon.

The Sweden international has been in fine form all season and was even hailed as a “generational talent” by TNT Spors pundit Lucy Ward for his performances, so it’s easy to see why there’s so much noise about him.

Still, Eddie Howe is confident that the speculation is not troubling Isak right now.

Eddie Howe says ‘generational’ Newcastle star doesn’t care about what he’s being about him right now

Speaking ahead of Saturday’s clash with Brighton, Howe said (via Sky Sports at 10.04 BST on 10/05/2024): “I don’t think of anything to do with those things [transfer rumours].

“Judging by Alex’s performances in training and just how he is day to day, I don’t see him thinking about those things or dealing with those rumours.

“It’s business as usual. I think when you’re in the position he’s in and you’re scoring goals, you get used to people talking about you and possibly creating rumours that may be true, maybe aren’t true – I’ve got no idea.

“For us, I just think we’re focusing on our future with Alex. We’re focusing on trying to build our team with him in it and he’s going to be an integral part of our future.

“We signed him knowing that he was young and we wanted to develop his talent and give him an opportunity to showcase what he can do. For me, that was a long-term thing that we started with him, a long-term journey hopefully.

Isak has been ice-cold in front of goal all season, which perhaps explains why he doesn’t read too much into all the speculation.

Scoring 24 goals in 37 appearances across all competitions during this most turbulent of seasons speaks to what a prolific finisher Isak is.

It seems no matter the external noise, Isak is capable of blocking it all out.

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