Alexander Isak's six-word response as Alan Shearer drops Newcastle United new contract hint

“We’ve seen recent big-name centre forwards sign long contracts,” said Shearer. Isak, perhaps awkwardly, laughed before Shearer continued: “You know what’s coming next.”

Right now, Newcastle possess one of the hottest strikers in Europe. 54 goals in just 92 appearances, he may have cost a club-record £63million from Real Sociedad two and a half years ago, but the Swede has proven to be a bargain.

For the first time since Shearer retired in 2006, Newcastle fans are talking about a man who has the potential to surpass Shearer’s 206 goals for the club, or at least break his Premier League total of 148 goals in black and white. He’s only 100 away...

But to do that, Isak would likely need to stay at St James’ Park beyond his current contract which expires in 2028. Given Erling Haaland recently penned a new nine and a half year contract at Manchester City, Shearer couldn’t resist suggesting Isak does the same.

In a quick response, Isak replied: “Yeah, we’ll see, you never know.” So you’re telling us there’s a chance...

What Eddie Howe has said about Alexander Isak’s contract situation

It was suggested earlier in the season that contract talks between Isak and Newcastle had stalled but Eddie Howe hit back.

“I don’t think contract talks started, I think that’s the issue,” said Howe. “If you are going to say they stalled when they never started that’s a problem!

“He has a long contract and I’m sure when the time comes that will be discussed Alex’s representatives and the football club but I don’t really know too much more than that.

“I don’t think necessarily at this stage we have to [convince him his future lies at Newcastle]. He’s motivated, wants to do well and has big aspirations with his career. He still relatively young so he has hopefully got a really bright future ahead of him - his desire to score goals is second to none.”

Howe also said: “From our viewpoint, we could not regard Alex highly enough. His contribution this season has been immense, especially recently.

“I think I don't want to change that rhythm that he's in, and I think it's very similar for the team and for Alex.

“Not thinking too deeply, just going into the games in a good frame of mind and enjoying your football and trying to carry on the form that he's in. Everything else off the pitch will naturally fall into place off of what he does on it.

“So I'm sure there are lots of positive things in the future for him. At the moment I just want him to concentrate on scoring.”