Alexander Isak Signs New Contract as Nottingham Forest Agree £55m Deal – Newcastle United’s Dream 2025/26 XI Taking Shape
By [Your Name], July 7, 2025
Newcastle United’s ambition for the 2025/26 season is undeniable. Backed by a long-term vision and deep financial strength, the club is in the midst of constructing what fans are already calling a “dream team.” The latest development in this ongoing transformation is a major contract renewal and a high-profile transfer agreement. Star striker Alexander Isak has officially signed a new long-term contract, while Nottingham Forest have accepted a £55 million deal from Newcastle for one of their top players. These moves further fuel the belief that the Magpies are not only aiming for domestic glory but also Champions League dominance.
This surge of activity in the transfer market and in squad consolidation is setting the tone for what could be the most successful season in Newcastle’s modern history. Here’s a deep dive into the significance of these decisions, and how the dream starting XI for the 2025/26 season is beginning to emerge.
Alexander Isak: A Long-Term Magpie
After much speculation about his future, Alexander Isak has put pen to paper on a new five-year contract that will keep him at St. James’ Park until at least the summer of 2030. The Swedish international, who joined the club from Real Sociedad in 2022, has become a cornerstone of Newcastle’s attack. His pace, intelligence, technical ability, and finishing prowess have earned him admiration from fans, pundits, and rival managers alike.
Over the past three seasons, Isak has consistently delivered, scoring over 50 goals in all competitions. Despite receiving interest from top European sides including Bayern Munich, Juventus, and Manchester United, the 25-year-old forward has committed his peak years to Newcastle.
In his signing statement, Isak said:
“This club gave me the platform to grow, and I want to repay that faith. We are building something special here. I believe in the project, the fans, and the future. I want to be part of the team that brings major trophies back to Newcastle.”
Manager Eddie Howe echoed this excitement, calling Isak “a central figure in our vision for the future.”
£55m Deal Agreed with Nottingham Forest
Newcastle’s transfer window has been buzzing, but the headline-grabbing move this week involves a £55 million agreement with Nottingham Forest for their midfield dynamo, Morgan Gibbs-White.
The 25-year-old English playmaker has been pivotal in Forest’s survival and occasional brilliance in the Premier League. Known for his creativity, pressing work rate, and ability to play between the lines, Gibbs-White has matured into one of the most versatile attacking midfielders in the league.
Newcastle had to fend off interest from Spurs and Chelsea, but their long-term planning, Champions League football, and an appealing financial package helped sway both Forest and the player.
Though the deal is pending medical and personal terms, insiders suggest the agreement is “99% complete.” Gibbs-White would add crucial depth and vision to Newcastle’s midfield, providing perfect balance alongside the industrious Bruno Guimarães and the defensive assurance of Sandro Tonali.
Newcastle United’s Dream 2025/26 Starting XI
With recent signings and contract renewals, Newcastle United’s squad is looking stronger than ever. If the club completes all its ongoing deals, here is how their “dream XI” could line up for the opening match of the 2025/26 Premier League season:
Goalkeeper
Nick Pope
- Consistent and commanding, Pope remains the first choice between the sticks. Now in his prime, his leadership and experience are crucial for Newcastle’s defensive structure.
Defence
RB: Tino Livramento
- Fast, technical, and defensively sound. Livramento has developed into one of the most exciting full-backs in England.
CB: Virgil van Dijk
- The blockbuster signing of the summer so far. The veteran Dutchman brings leadership, Champions League experience, and composure at the back.
CB: Sven Botman
- A rock in the heart of defence. His partnership with Van Dijk promises to be one of the best in Europe.
LB: Lewis Hall
- After a strong 2024/25 campaign, Hall has made the left-back role his own. His energy and crossing ability are vital in attack.
Midfield
CDM: Sandro Tonali
- Now fully settled and focused after initial challenges, Tonali is the midfield enforcer and deep-lying playmaker that makes Newcastle tick.
CM: Bruno Guimarães
- The heartbeat of the team. His flair, intelligence, and tactical awareness elevate the midfield to an elite level.
CAM: Morgan Gibbs-White (pending signing)
- The missing creative link in the final third. Gibbs-White is expected to provide that spark and unpredictability, breaking low blocks and creating chances.
Attack
RW: Anthony Elanga
- A new signing from Nottingham Forest, Elanga brings explosive pace and width. He offers a different dimension on the right flank.
LW: Harvey Barnes
- Proven in the Premier League, Barnes delivers goals and assists from the left. His link-up play with Isak is developing rapidly.
ST: Alexander Isak
- The talisman. Leading the line with flair and finesse, Isak is now firmly part of Newcastle’s identity.
Depth, Strategy, and Squad Rotation
Beyond the starting eleven, Newcastle now boasts remarkable squad depth. Players like Joelinton, Joe Willock, Callum Wilson, Miguel Almirón, Kieran Trippier, and Elliot Anderson offer tactical flexibility and rotational strength. Trippier, though aging, remains a key locker room figure and experienced backup at full-back.
With Champions League commitments, domestic competitions, and an increasingly competitive league, Eddie Howe has built a team capable of rotating without losing quality.
Tactical Evolution Under Eddie Howe
Newcastle’s dream XI also hints at a tactical evolution under Eddie Howe. The 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 formations are likely to dominate, offering the versatility to switch from possession-based control to high-intensity pressing. With Gibbs-White’s creativity and Van Dijk’s defensive control, the team is now more balanced from back to front.
Isak and Elanga add pace and counter-attacking threat, while Bruno and Tonali can control the tempo and recycle possession efficiently.
Fan Expectations and Title Aspirations
Newcastle fans are dreaming big — and rightly so. From narrowly avoiding relegation just a few seasons ago, the club is now eyeing Premier League and Champions League glory. Last season’s top-four finish and FA Cup semi-final appearance showed their potential. But with the current squad improvements, the bar has been raised.
The Toon Army wants silverware. A Premier League title push is within reach. The club’s owners have consistently reiterated their goal to win trophies while maintaining financial sustainability and developing young talent.
The likes of Isak committing long-term, Van Dijk arriving with experience, and Gibbs-White potentially adding midfield brilliance show that the dream is no longer far-fetched.
Final Thoughts
With Alexander Isak’s contract extension and the near-confirmed £55m transfer of Morgan Gibbs-White from Nottingham Forest, Newcastle United are not only retaining their brightest stars but actively enhancing their squad with calculated precision.
The 2025/26 dream XI now reflects a club that is no longer an underdog — but a genuine contender. Eddie Howe’s men are poised to fight on all fronts, and as the new season approaches, the football world will be watching Tyneside with anticipation.
Newcastle United are not just dreaming — they are building. And with every signing and strategic decision, the dream becomes more and more of a reality.
