Anthony Elanga says he and the rest of Newcastle’s squad are desperate to continue playing with ‘one of the best strikers in the world’ Alexander Isak next season.
Isak’s future has been the subject of intense speculation in recent months and widespread reports on Tuesday claimed Liverpool had opened fresh talks to prise the 25-year-old away from St James’ Park.
The Premier League champions have long held an interest in Isak and would be prepared to spend in the region of £120million to secure the Swede’s services this summer.
The proposed move would see Isak follow Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, Milos Kerkez and Armin Pecsi through the doors at Anfield, with the Reds putting together a formidable squad ahead of their title defence.
However, Newcastle bosses have no intention of selling Isak. Eddie Howe’s men are preparing for another season of Champions League football and the attacker is considered an untouchable asset unless an astronomical offer arrives.
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Liverpool are eyeing Hugo Ekitike as an alternative up front should they fail in pursuit of Isak and the Eintracht Frankfurt forward is said to have agreed personal terms with the Merseyside giants.
The incessant rumours have threatened to overshadow Elanga’s arrival in the North East and it remains to be seen if the former Nottingham Forest winger will have the chance to link up with his fellow countryman next season.
But speaking to Sky Sports, Elanga made it clear he planned to ignore the gossip and was instead looking forward to strengthening the ‘amazing’ bond he had formed with Isak at international level.
‘If you look at this team and what they did last season, it played a huge part in me coming,’ he said.
‘You look at the likes of Tino [Livramento], Lewis [Hall], Sven [Botman], Fabian [Schar], Bruno [Guimaraes], Sandro [Tonali], I could go through the whole team. What they did last season was amazing, having played against them home and away from Nottingham Forest.
‘A player like Alex… everyone wants to play with Alex. For me, he’s one of the best strikers in the world and having played with him at international level, I can really, really say that.
‘There are always going to be things and rumours around the world, but, for me, he’s a top guy and a top player.
‘From playing with him at international level and training with him now, it’s amazing.’
Elanga is grateful for the support he has received since joining Newcastle and is relishing the opportunity to showcase his ability and talent when the new season gets underway.
‘I know a lot of the lads here and I think that’s played a part in me coming here,’ the Sweden international added.
‘Not just that, but I’ve talked about the gaffer and I think he’s helped a lot in this instance.
‘The club is a big club with a big fanbase so all of that has played a massive role in me coming here.’
He added: ‘I just want to showcase my abilities, showcase my talent, show that to all the Geordies and have an amazing season.
‘When you know the lads it helps you settle even quicker.
‘I’ve only been here for a week but it feels like I’ve been here for years because the lads and staff have made me feel so welcome.’
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