Club’s position is worsened by their shortage of attacking options
Alexander Isak has refused Newcastle United’s latest attempt to bring him back into the first-team squad as his push for a move to Liverpool continues.
The 25-year-old has not trained with Eddie Howe’s side or played a competitive minute this summer, effectively ruling himself out until his future is resolved.
Newcastle’s hierarchy, including chairman Yasir Al-Rumayyan, delegates from the Public Investment Fund, and minority owner Jamie Reuben were at St James’ Park on Monday to watch Newcastle’s Premier League match against Liverpool, in which the club laboured without a striker.
On the same day, the high-profile group had met Isak and his representatives in Northumberland in an effort to persuade him to commit for at least another season, with an improved, lucrative contract reportedly discussed.
It is understood Isak has rejected the offer and remains set on leaving. The player said on social media last week that his relationship with the club is “lost” and “can’t continue”.
“When promises are broken and trust is lost, the relationship can’t continue,” Isak said. “That’s where things are for me right now – and why change is in the best interests of everyone.”
The player’s rejection of the club is compounded by their shortage of attacking options. Anthony Gordon, who has started up front in both of this season’s Premier League games so far, is suspended for the next three games after receiving a red card against Liverpool.
That leaves the inexperienced Will Osula as the only fit striking option heading into Saturday’s trip to Leeds.
Recruitment efforts have also been unsuccessful. Brentford turned down a £40m approach for Yoane Wissa. The forward is quite keen on the move and has downed tools much like Isak, but Brentford are reluctant to sell him with little time left to source a replacement and after having let go of too many key figures this summer.
Newcastle have also tabled a £50m bid for Wolves striker Jorgen Strand Larsen, but that was rejected. Wolves continue to insist the Norwegian forward is not available, so continued focus on the player might end up leaving the Magpies short.
Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson is another option for the Toon, but the reluctance to make a move for him despite the player having been available all summer speaks volumes about how he is rated by key figures in Benton.
