Liverpool manager Arne Slot admits they require “at least one more forward” as the club persist in chasing Alexander Isak, with their pursuit showing no signs of easing.

The Reds saw a £110million proposal for the Newcastle striker turned down and have not yet returned with an improved approach. Isak has made it clear he wishes to depart St James’ Park and is doing all he can to push for a move after three seasons in the north east.

Newcastle are demanding a British-record price but had insisted Isak would remain this summer under any conditions, even if they secured another striker themselves. The saga still has weeks to unfold and Slot has stressed he wants more attacking depth at Anfield after losing Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez.

Liverpool paid £79m to bring in Hugo Ekitike from Frankfurt, the French forward netting on his debut, yet Slot is seeking more and has hinted at moving his new recruit wider to fit another signing.

He told Sky Sports: “I view Hugo primarily as a No 9 who can also feature from the left or partner another No 9. We must have at least one more attacker.”

Newcastle have excluded Isak from all pre-season activities and Eddie Howe concedes there is no chance of naming the Swede for their Premier League kick-off against Aston Villa given the scenario. Matters are complicated by their inability to secure any striker targets.

It leaves them short in attack with Anthony Gordon expected to spearhead the side if fit. Ahead of a Champions League return, Howe admits Newcastle must accept they will proceed with the current group.

“I don’t believe it’s been healthy for us,” he said. “I can’t deny it’s posed a significant challenge. Alex, to me, is among the finest strikers in the world – possibly the best. Losing him from our squad leaves a massive void.”

He also said: “Morale was definitely affected early in pre-season. There was nothing I could do to change that – it was inevitable.

“When a player of that calibre is absent from your group, it’s hard for the squad to completely grasp it, know the reasons and how to respond. But as time has gone by, there’s been acceptance this is the team and we have to make the best of it.