Amidst the ongoing transfer saga surrounding Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak, manager Eddie Howe has asserted that the club would not be left short of options in the attacking department should the Swedish international depart. Isak's future at St. James' Park has been cast into serious doubt after he publicly stated his desire to leave the club, citing "broken promises". Liverpool have had a £110 million bid rejected by Newcastle earlier this summer.
Howe acknowledged the difficult situation, admitting Newcastle are in a "lose-lose situation". He confirmed that Isak would not be involved in the upcoming Premier League clash against Liverpool. Howe also mentioned having had conversations with Isak at the end of last season but refrained from divulging the details. Despite the standoff, Howe expressed confidence that Isak would be welcomed back by his teammates if he decided to stay.
Newcastle United have refuted Isak's claims that he was told he could leave this summer and insisted they "do not foresee" the player being sold, as their terms are unlikely to be met. However, the club is actively seeking to bolster its attacking options before the transfer window closes on September 1st.
Howe wants two strikers signed before the window closes. Newcastle have reportedly agreed personal terms with Wolves striker Jorgen Strand Larsen. However, there remains one very obvious barrier to a deal, with Wolves valuing their striker at £60m. Newcastle are also monitoring alternative targets, including Nicolas Jackson, Yoane Wissa, and Goncalo Ramos. Yoane Wissa was left out of Brentford's squad for their clash against Aston Villa on Saturday afternoon.
The Magpies have already missed out on several targets, including Joao Pedro, Liam Delap, Hugo Ekitike, and Benjamin Sesko.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding Isak, Howe is seemingly confident that the club will secure adequate replacements. The manager emphasized the club's need to act in the best interests of Newcastle United.
There is speculation that Liverpool are preparing a fresh bid for Isak. However, Newcastle maintain they have no plans to sell him before the deadline day. A potential solution being discussed is a new agreement with a clear buyout clause, which could facilitate a January transfer.
In addition to the pursuit of new strikers, there are reports that William Osula could leave Newcastle before the transfer window shuts. Bayer Leverkusen are said to be interested in the striker.
Newcastle have already made four major signings this summer in Anthony Elanga, Aaron Ramsdale, Malick Thiaw and Jacob Ramsey.