Newcastle United continue to fend off attention in Alexander Isak while working to secure another striker this transfer window.

Although much of the Magpies’ transfer activity has been encouraging, the standout headline from Tyn eside is Alexander Isak’s intention to depart this summer.

Supporters were left stunned by Isak’s shock position, particularly after he gave no hint of leaving before the market opened. The 25-year-old just completed another strong Premier League campaign, netting 23 goals and helping Newcastle lift the Carabao Cup against Liverpool at Wembley.

Some still see Isak as a club hero for his scoring feats, but others would rather cash in following his latest behaviour. With several areas strengthened, attention is now turning to finding a successor to Callum Wilson, who signed for West Ham United after being released earlier this summer.

Newcastle have targeted Brentford forward Yoane Wissa, who, like Isak, is separated from the Bees’ first team as he pushes for a transfer. Yet Brentford have increased their valuation, with figures as high as £60million being circulated in reports.

As Newcastle’s striker hunt goes on, Craig Hope has delivered insight into Liverpool’s manoeuvres during this window.

Liverpool are pursuing Isak, already tabling a £110m offer for the striker. But Newcastle are holding out for £150m, even while insisting publicly that he will not be sold.

Certain Liverpool supporters suspect Wissa is an Isak replacement, though this is inaccurate. In reality, Wissa is a successor to Wilson, as Eddie Howe looks to secure a younger forward capable of filling Isak’s shoes.

Keith Andrews was unaware of Wissa’s transfer saga, but the DR Congo attacker is clearly discontent with proceedings. He has erased Brentford references from his social accounts, indicating his readiness to leave.

The situation around Isak remains unresolved, with Hope posting on X that his future depends entirely on whether Newcastle sign strikers before the window closes.

Should Wissa fail to arrive, the possibility of Isak departing diminishes greatly. Still, Liverpool are ‘monitoring carefully’, waiting for the opportunity to strike and land the 25-year-old.

The Isak saga drags on, despite Newcastle’s continued insistence he is staying. At present, the striker is training separately from the squad and is allegedly striking in an effort to force an exit.

It has also been revealed that Isak is unlikely to attend the PFA Gala on Tuesday evening, where he would undoubtedly attract the most attention.

Despite four senior arrivals, Newcastle have experienced a turbulent summer. Several other targets chose alternative Premier League clubs over a Tyne side move.

The Magpies attempted to capture Hugo Ekitike, only for Liverpool to snatch him soon after. Now, the Reds persist in unsettling Newcastle by testing their resolve on Isak.

Regardless of whether Liverpool succeed, they have managed to push Isak into a mindset where he no longer wishes to represent a club he remains tied to for another three years.