Newcastle draw Qarabag, Howe addresses Isak exit before Liverpool
Explainer on why Arsenal, Liverpool, Man City, Chelsea and Spurs are set to earn significantly more Champions League revenue than Newcastle at this stage.
Ahead of Liverpool away, Eddie Howe reflects on Alexander Isak’s £125m exit after his strike to force Anfield move, calling the saga a distraction. Isak is out with a broken leg for the reunion.
Spurs and Villa move for Real Madrid’s Brahim Diaz, with Newcastle monitoring and contacting his camp. Versatile Morocco international could add depth across the front line.
Sevilla want to sign on-loan keeper Odysseas Vlachodimos permanently. Talks held and he is willing to stay, but Newcastle may sell to the highest bidder amid interest after his standout season.
Newcastle visit Liverpool after a 1-1 at PSG. Howe may stick with 3-4-3, with Bruno Guimarães in contention and Joelinton out. Prediction tips a 2-2, highlighting Newcastle’s threat against an injury-hit defence.
Newcastle draw Qarabag in the Champions League play-offs, first leg in Baku on 17/18 Feb, return at St James’ Park on 24/25 Feb. Winners face Barcelona or Chelsea. Tie involves an 8,000-mile round trip.
A look at Saturday’s Premier League fixtures from a Newcastle viewpoint, assessing results that could impact Eddie Howe’s side.
Newcastle reject Fulham’s £20m offer for Joe Willock. Player is keen but Magpies will not sell without a replacement. Willock scored in the 1-1 draw with PSG and has one year left on his deal in 2026.
Column weighs Eddie Howe’s tenure, arguing Newcastle’s rigid 4-3-3/4-5-1 off-ball shape is predictable and a change might be needed, despite affection for the manager.
