Eddie Howe has answered fresh questions over the state of play on Alexander Isak's future at Newcastle United as Liverpool prepare a final transfer offer.
The Magpies find themselves in an ongoing stand-off with their star striker triggered by his request to miss their preseason tour of Asia to consider his exit options from St. James' Park.
The saga has exploded since the start of August, with Isak currently training alone on Tyneside, and Howe confirming he is not eligible for selection.
That includes Newcastle's eye-catching clash with Liverpool on August 25 where Isak will watch on from home.
The Swedish international has clearly set out his stance of wanting to leave, with an explosive social media post citing 'broken promises' by Newcastle, over his availability to depart.
Liverpool saw a £110m offer rejected earlier this month, as Newcastle value their talisman at £150m, but the Reds will not go above £120m in an expected 'take-it-or-leave-it' bid due before the September 1 transfer deadline.
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Howe has been working overtime to secure attacking reinforcements, to either cover for Isak's exit, or partner the former Real Sociedad star if he returns.
The club have set their stance of being prepared to hold Isak to the terms of his contract, which runs until 2028, despite the external pressure to let him go.
Brentford's Yoane Wissa is one name on Howe's shortlist, but the 47-year-old is ready to cast his net wide, with the DR Congo international one of five rumoured options.
The sense remains that Newcastle will only sanction an Isak exit if they are confident cover is secured and Howe confirmed the club will back him on that.
"I don’t think the club will allow that situation to happen [Isak leaving without a replacement signed]. We certainly can't go through the season with no recognised striker at the football club – and that’s no disrespect to Will Osula," as per The Guardian.
"He’s doing really well and progressing really well, but he’s got limited experience in the Premier League, although I’m really happy with his career progression.
"But, Alex at the moment, would be the only striker we have with Premier League history of goals and appearances and starts, so we can’t leave ourselves in that position."
In three seasons at Newcastle, Isak has scored 62 goals in 109 appearances, with a rate of 54 in 86 in the Premier League.
Newcastle news and related links
- Liverpool dealt injury blow ahead of Premier League clash against Newcastle
- Wayne Rooney claims there's 'no way back' for Isak at Newcastle
- Alexander Isak next club: Where Newcastle United striker could go if Liverpool transfer falls through