Newcastle ‘high level’ vow that eases scary talk of sales to satisfy FFP rules

Newcastle United will be looking to add to their attacking department rather than weaken it amid talk that Arsenal are trying to prise Alexander Isak to the capital.

Ahead of a summer window that is already screaming that a new centre-back after long-term injuries to Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles, Howe does not need reminding another forward is also vital in the coming months after a season in which Isak and Callum Wilson have both left him short at times. But as for selling Isak, that seems to be out of the question for the head coach.

Howe said: “For me, Alex has limitless potential. You’ve got someone who has had really good experiences in his career.

“He’s travelled as a young player and had some experience of different leagues. I think he’s come to us at a really good time of his career where we can help him, develop his talents and give him a platform to show how good he is.

“I think at the moment, he’s building in confidence all the time. He’s a high-level player and we’re delighted to have him with us.”

The big question mark over Newcastle has been whether they have to sell because of FFP and PSR rules if a tempting offer comes in. But Howe made it clear that United’s hopes on the field should not be compromised.

Newcastle CEO Darren Eales accepted that a star name could be sold at some stage when facing the media back in January. But both Eales and Howe came up with a plan that allowed Newcastle to hold on to Kieran Trippier despite genuine bids from Bayern Munich.

The Toon boss said: “I think you have to try to keep your best players. Whether you’re able to do that continually, with the rules that are in place at the moment, that’s always unsure.

“I’m not in control of that, but from my perspective, to be the team that we want to be, we have to keep our best players and keep improving.”