Yasir Al-Rumayyan is heading to Tyneside, with the Newcastle United chairman expected in the stands for tonight’s high-profile clash against Liverpool at 8pm.
The arrival of the PIF governor carries weight, not only as a public backing of Eddie Howe and his squad, but also with crucial off-field matters needing resolution as the summer transfer window closes in just one week.
Talks are almost certain to follow tonight’s fixture, whether concerning the uncertain situation over Alexander Isak’s future or aiding the club’s urgent push for a long-awaited striker recruit.
Isak aside, Newcastle remain determined to secure a forward capable of succeeding Callum Wilson, with Brentford’s Yoane Wissa and Wolves’ Jorgen Strand Larsen both chased last week in a bid to strengthen Eddie Howe’s most fragile position.
The Magpies’ stance on any Isak sale is unequivocal. He will not depart unless two proven strikers arrive and an offer close to £150m is tabled, with Tuesday’s club statement confirming Liverpool’s £110m opening bid was far below their valuation.
Chances are growing that Isak stays put, and plans for his reintegration could soon take shape, though this will not alter the fact that fresh firepower remains an absolute necessity.
With Anthony Gordon again set to lead the line tonight while Isak sits out and Osula remains untested at centre-forward, the search for a genuine No. 9 feels every bit as important as resolving the Isak saga.
PIF’s presence on Tyneside should help accelerate progress towards two ideal outcomes – keeping hold of Isak and landing a new striker – in the final seven days of a turbulent transfer window.
