Alan Shearer blasts Alexander Isak transfer update and demands Newcastle 'tell the truth'

Alan Shearer has criticised Newcastle after the Magpies announced that Alexander Isak would miss his team's pre-season tour to Asia due to a "minor thigh injury". Isak bagged 23 Premier League goals last season but has reportedly told Newcastle he wants to leave the club this summer.

Newcastle are preparing for their fourth full campaign under Eddie Howe after securing their return to the Champions League following a fifth-place Premier League finish last season. Isak has been instrumental to Newcastle's rise up the table in recent seasons, with the 25-year-old finding the back of the net in his side's Carabao Cup final triumph over Liverpool in March. But he could be set to head through the St James' Park exit this summer.

Liverpool are in the driving seat to sign Isak after opening talks with the north east giants over a £120million transfer earlier this month.

Manchester United have dismissed the idea of signing the Sweden international as they cannot meet Newcastle's asking price, while the Arsenal ownership is unlikely to sanction a transfer.

And Chelsea have reportedly ruled themselves out of a move for Isak after already landing forwards Liam Delap and Joao Pedro this summer.

For the latest breaking stories and headlines, sign up to our Daily Express transfer newsletter.

Shearer offered his thoughts on Isak's situation during an interview with Betfair on Thursday. And the former striker explained: "It's ridiculous what Newcastle put out this morning to say he wasn't on the trip because of a slight thigh injury.

"If they thought people wouldn't see through that... it was disappointing. They should've just told the truth straight away. I understand it's a very difficult situation for them, but it is what it is.

"Eddie Howe has to use all his persuasive powers to do what he can and try to make him stay at least one more year. If that can't happen then it is what it is.

"You have to get the very best deal for the football club and if someone is prepared to pay north of £150m, and if he really, really wants to go, you can't step in the player's way."

Shearer then added: "Isak has been brilliant for Newcastle, helped us achieve our dream of winning a trophy and if there's no way whatsoever that he can be persuaded to stay at Newcastle, then they have to get the best deal possible.

"And if someone's prepared to pay what they want, you have to say 'thank you' and build for the future because there's no individual bigger than the football club.

"It sounds like he's going to leave. The news came out very strongly this morning and when that happens it seems to be a reality."