Liverpool’s pursuit of Alexander Isak took a hit during Newcastle United’s Premier League opener against Aston Villa on Saturday.

The 25 -year-old forward was left out of Newcastle’s matchday squad by manager Eddie Howe, who instead selected Anthony Gordon to lead the line at Villa Park.

This decision comes while uncertainty surrounds the Sweden striker’s future, following a £110m plus bonuses bid from Liverpool that Newcastle rejected earlier this summer.

Henry shares his verdict on Newcastle attacker Alexander Isak
The Swedish international also missed Newcastle’s pre-season campaign in Asia and continues to train separately from Howe’s first-team group.

Speaking at his Friday press conference, Howe addressed the situation, insisting that despite Liverpool’s interest, Isak could remain on Tyneside once the transfer deadline passes on September 1.

Howe explained: “Yes [he might still be here after the window closes]. Right now, I believe so, and my stance hasn’t shifted all summer. It isn’t entirely up to me, but he’s under contract with us, which is why I say that.”

Still, there remains a possibility of Isak leaving, and if that happens, Newcastle will look to secure a replacement before the deadline.

Alexander Isak continues to be strongly linked with a departure from Newcastle (Credit:Getty)
Alexander Isak continues to be strongly linked with a departure from Newcastle (Credit:Getty)

According to Friday’s Mail report, Newcastle are monitoring Paris Saint-Germain striker Goncalo Ramos, who also represents Portugal at international level.

Sources claim a deal could happen, though PSG would prefer a permanent sale rather than sanctioning a loan move for Ramos to Tyneside.

Newcastle are aiming to sign two forwards before September, with Brentford’s Yoane Wissa among the names regularly mentioned.

However, as with most of Newcastle’s transfer efforts this summer, completing such business may prove difficult, which could also damage Liverpool’s chances of luring Isak away.

Reports from TBR claim Ramos, who has a PSG contract until 2028, is not particularly eager to leave the French champions this window.

The Portuguese forward is said to want wages of around £200,000 per week, a figure that would make him the top earner at Newcastle if he made the switch.

Goncalo Ramos found the net against Spurs on Wednesday (Credit:Getty) Goncalo Ramos found the net against Spurs on Wednesday (Credit:Getty)
Goncalo Ramos found the net against Spurs on Wednesday (Credit:Getty)

By comparison, Newcastle captain Bruno Guimaraes currently earns £160,000 weekly, according to Capology.

After PSG’s win over Spurs in the UEFA Super Cup on Wednesday, Ramos confirmed to reporters that he intends to remain with the French side.