Dan Burn did not hold back. Speaking while on international tour duty, the Newcastle defender laid bare how crucial Alexander Isak is to Eddie Howe’s project. With Liverpool circling and speculation reaching fever pitch, Burn captured the mood inside the camp: one of apprehension and unease, shared by a recent report by GOAL.COM.

“If we lost any player it would upset our tight-knit group that’s been together for two or three years now,” said Burn, underlining the strong chemistry that Howe has built. “Any player that leaves, it doesn’t help but from our point of view we’re just going to control what we can control.”

Officially, Isak has a “minor thigh issue.” Unofficially, the whispers are getting louder. He was not in the squad against Celtic. He did not travel to Asia. That combination has sparked claims that a transfer request has been lodged and that Liverpool are firmly at the table.

A £150 million move would smash Premier League records and represent a huge statement from Arne Slot’s side. With questions around Darwin Nunez and Luis Diaz, it is no surprise that the Reds are targeting a proven goalscorer. Isak’s blend of finesse and physicality has made him a standout since arriving at St. James’ Park.

“We’re looking forward to getting Alex back when he’s fit. It’s a question for Alex to answer. He’s obviously a big player for us, but we do have a lot of quality in the squad as well. Bringing Anthony [Elanga] in as well, which I think was a great signing,” Burn added, toeing the line between hope and pragmatism.

For Newcastle, losing Isak would not just be about goals lost, but momentum stalled. The club has worked hard to break into the elite conversation. Keeping their talisman is a test of that ambition.

Already active this summer, Liverpool have secured deals for Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, and Hugo Ekitike. Adding Isak would signal the beginning of a new era at Anfield. For Newcastle, it would mean another unwanted reminder of football’s food chain.

If the rumours are true and Alexander Isak has asked to leave, it’s hard not to feel a little heartbroken as a Newcastle supporter. He’s been a revelation, and to see him possibly swap black-and-white for red feels like a step back after so much recent progress.

That said, this is modern football. £150 million is a staggering sum, and if used wisely, it could strengthen three key areas. The arrival of Anthony Elanga is promising, but he’s no like-for-like replacement for Isak. We’d need more firepower, and fast.

Dan Burn’s comments hit home. This group isn’t just built on ability, it’s built on camaraderie. If Isak leaves, it risks disturbing the balance that Howe has cultivated. Losing stars to traditional giants is something we’ve always faced, but after two years of climbing, this one feels different.

We’re not naive, but we’re hopeful. Hopeful that Isak sees what’s being built and stays. And if not, then hopeful that we reinvest wisely and continue pushing forward.