Alexander Isak makes £58m transfer admission as Newcastle United return date revealed

Alexander Isak has provided his verdict on being Newcastle United’s club-record transfer signing.

The 23-year-old joined from La Liga side Real Sociedad in August for £58million - but Isak insists the price tag has nothing to do with him.

“Well [added expectation] is the reality now and I understand that with the amount of money in the industry today comes a lot of expectation but I try and remember that the transfer fee had nothing to do with me,” Isak told Vogue Scandinavia “It was between the two clubs.

“I just try and keep focused on what is under my control, that being the football and my game. I think it is important for kids now to know there is no ‘right’ way.

“When you are young you should really just enjoy it, kick the ball, play at every opportunity you can and really love football, that is training. Ultimately passion is the key, without that, it would be difficult to put in the work needed to get to the top.”

A thigh injury has made it a frustrating start to life at St James’ Park. Isak scored two goals in his opening three games - including a debut goal at Liverpool - but hasn’t been able to play since September.

Eddie Howe’s side have coped in his absence by rising to third in the Premier League table. Although the Sweden international has watched from the sidelines, a dream to England’s top-flight remains a “dream come true”.

He added: “It’s a dream come true as I have always wanted to play in the Premier League. It’s fast, straightforward football here, so suits my game.

“I really like the city as everyone who lives in Newcastle is a Newcastle fan so you can really feel the passion. It’s a special feeling.”

Isak is closing in on a return from injury, with the former Borussia Dortmund man set to travel to Saudi Arabia next week for the club’s training camp.

The next fortnight or so has been described as a “mini pre-season” by Howe, where United face face Saudi Pro League champions Al-Hilal and Spanish side Rayo Vallecano before resuming the campaign against Bournemouth in the Carabao Cup.

It is hoped Isak will be fully up to speed by then.